Why has it become harder to find ham in supermarkets?
It is important to know that grocery stores are responsible for managing their supply directly with processing companies. An article published in La Presse on December 23, 2019, may provide some answers to your question: https://www.lapresse.ca/affaires/2019-12-23/mais-ou-est-passe-le-jambon-picnic (in French only)
Why has ham become more expensive?
Product prices are set between the stores and processing companies. These prices will reflect the various market fluctuations. An article published in La Presse on December 23, 2019, may provide some answers to your question: https://www.lapresse.ca/affaires/2019-12-23/mais-ou-est-passe-le-jambon-picnic (in French only)
Why does some pork come from the United States, Denmark or elsewhere?
Like you, large chains are conscious about sourcing local products. This is one of the reasons most supermarkets sell Quebec pork. However, store chains deal directly with the various processing companies and are therefore responsible for the products they place on the shelves.
We encourage you to contact your supermarket or visit your local butcher shop, many of which sell Quebec pork.
Why isn’t Quebec pork always identified as such in stores?
Like you, large chains are conscious about sourcing local products. The good news is, since June 6, 2019, all fresh pork meat sold at IGA stores is from Quebec. Other food chains regularly use our logo to identify Quebec pork, as well.
If you cannot find any Quebec pork products at your supermarket, please reach out to them. They are better placed to answer to your question.
Why are some cuts hard to find in supermarkets?
It is important to understand that it is the supermarkets that negotiate with the various processing companies (i.e. our organization does not deal directly with food chains). As such, supermarkets are responsible for managing their supply (based on their customer base, demand, season, etc.).
We suggest that you contact your local supermarket, as it is better placed to answer to your question.
How long can pork be stored in the fridge?
The number of days pork can be safely stored in the fridge depends on the type of cut. Check out our fridge and freezer storage chart (link to Pro Tips)
Does Quebec pork contain growth hormones?
Contrary to many preconceived notions, pork a healthy meat that does not contain added growth hormones as their use is prohibited for Canadian pork production. Quebec pork is also free of pathogens, antibiotic residue and other contaminants.
Est-ce que le porc du Québec contient des hormones de croissance?
Contrairement à beaucoup d’idées préconçues, le porc est une viande saine qui ne contient pas d’hormones de croissance, leur utilisation n’étant pas autorisée au Canada. Le porc du Québec est aussi sans agents pathogènes, sans résidus d’antibiotiques ou autres contaminants.