Buying local has never been a passing phase for French’s®. For more than a century, French’s® Tomato Ketchup has stayed true to its Canadian roots. From the tomatoes grown by local producers to production and packaging, it all begins and ends in Canada. In fact, French’s is the only ketchup that holds that distinction.
“More than ever, foodservice operators and consumers alike are demanding that the products they serve have the authenticity and quality they deserve,” says Juriaan Snellen, executive corporate chef for McCormick & Company, Canada. “The movement to support local in all aspects of the industry is stronger than it was before the pandemic. Everyone is aware of the challenges restaurants have had and understand the importance of supporting local farmers, producers, manufacturers, and restaurants,” he says.
The local movement is also an important differentiator for chefs, who are equally committed to supporting Canadian producers, from dairy and beef farmers to egg producers and potato growers. “French’s fits the bill because of our production in Leamington, Ont.,” says Snellen.
Research shows that consumers are very proud of their heritage, says Luna Ravenna, senior director, North America Marketing & eCommerce, McCormick & Company.
“The data shows 58 per cent of Canadian consumers are looking for made-in-Canada products. That has been an important differentiator for French’s for many years, long before local became a trend. Our ketchup is made from 100-per-cent Canadian tomatoes, and our mustard from 100-per-cent Canadian-grown mustard seed picked at the peak of flavour.”
Consumer preferences are also driven by flavour, as well as by the high-quality, clean-label ingredients demanded by consumers who value wellness and sustainability in their food choices. “Our ketchup starts with the highest-quality ingredients and is free from artificial colours and glucose-fructose. And our commitment to sustainability has gained international recognition. Our company was named the most sustainable corporation in the Food Sector by the Corporate Knights Global Sustainability Index,” says Ravenna, adding “our commitment to excellence and quality has been second to none since the company was founded more than a century ago. People put a lot of trust in our brand because our formulas have always been made from clean ingredients.”
