How can B.C. reduce its reliance on imported food?

Food processing experts say B.C. needs to protect province's food autonomy and soften impact of possible U.S. tariffs.

The push to process more food in the province isn’t without challenges — and controversy.

The high price of land is often cited as a reason food processors struggle to set up shop in the region.

The Lass Chance Beverage Co. has processing facilities and cider house sit on farmland adjacent to its orchards.

B.C. should focus on creating food hubs where small farms can take their food to be processed, says Lana Hamir .

Hamir calls on municipalities to help identify land for community processing facilities and shared kitchens.

She says the land commission needs to stop treating industry like the enemy and begin to see it as a way to support farmers.

The agriculture sector is open to having the conversation about food processing on farmland.

Popham said the province allows processing on ALR land if ingredients come from on site, or on a larger scale if it helps the greater agriculture community.

Newman , who has participated in food security task forces in the past, accused the government of stalling on a difficult decision: “No more task forces. It’s time for action.”.