Tastes of Nova Scotia to be Showcased in Louisiana

Nova Scotia's agri-food and seafood specialties will be showcased next week, Aug. 4 -8, when representatives of Nova Scotia companies and a Halifax chef head to Louisiana.

Marketing officials from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries will lead a trade mission to New Orleans to participate in the Louisiana Food Service Expo, conduct business meetings with food sector representatives, and attend a Taste of Nova Scotia reception for the local hospitality and tourism industry.

"Our trade mission to Louisiana in February was very successful, resulting in market opportunities for the Nova Scotia companies that participated," said Chris d'Entremont, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries. "This mission follows up on our initial contacts, but it will also focus on the food service industry in the New Orleans area."

During the Food Expo and the Taste of Nova Scotia reception, Ray Bear, executive chef at the Prince George Hotel, will show representatives of the local food service sector industry how to prepare Nova Scotia products. The menu will include Nova Scotia seafood, fruit and vegetables. Nova Scotia wine and cheese will compliment the menu. The Prince George Hotel is a member of Taste of Nova Scotia.

Mr. Bear's visit to Louisiana is part of a chef exchange Taste of Nova Scotia is initiating with food service representatives from Louisiana. In September, Louisiana chef John Besh will visit Nova Scotia and work with Mr. Bear to share his culinary skills and highlight the culture and tastes of Louisiana.

The following companies are participating in the trade mission:
Stirling Fruit Farms (2000) Ltd. -- fruit and vegetable producer, value-added products Grand Pre Wines Ltd. -- Nova Scotia wine and cider producer Nova Scotia Arctic Char -- farmed arctic char Taste of Nova Scotia Quality Food Program.

New Orleans has more than 3,300 restaurants that serve more than 11 million visitors each year.

"This visit will build upon our trade relationship with the state of Louisiana, as well as our historical and cultural ties," said Mr. d'Entremont.