Fresh Ontario-grown raspberries are now arriving at the Ontario Food Terminal, offering exceptional flavour, fast farm-to-market delivery and another reason to celebrate the height of local produce season
Ontario’s local produce season continues to gather momentum with the arrival of Ontario-grown raspberries, one of summer’s most anticipated fruits.
For grocery retailers, farm markets, restaurants and food service operators, raspberry season is about more than adding another local item to the shelf or menu. It’s a sign that Ontario’s harvest is reaching its peak, bringing an abundance of fresh, seasonal produce to businesses and consumers across the province.
The first Ontario raspberries of the season begin arriving this week, moving quickly from local farms to the Ontario Food Terminal before being distributed to customers.
A sure sign that summer has arrived
Few fruits are as closely associated with Ontario summers as fresh raspberries.
The start of raspberry season is a sign that summer is really starting.
Although raspberries are available year-round from other growing regions, Ontario’s harvest offers a limited seasonal window that many buyers look forward to each year. Because the season is relatively short, demand for locally grown raspberries tends to be especially strong. They’re popular with consumers looking to enjoy fresh berries at their peak, while many also purchase them for homemade jams and jellies.
Why Ontario raspberries stand out
Ontario-grown raspberries are known for their sweet flavour and juicy texture. Compared to imported berries that often travel long distances to get here, local raspberries spend less time on trucks and arrive noticeably fresher. They are also typically more delicate. They’re usually more tender and don’t last as long, but they taste sweet and juicy.
That tenderness is one reason why local raspberries are so highly valued. Rather than being bred or handled primarily for long-distance shipping, they’re enjoyed for their freshness and flavour while in season.
From farm to customer in just one day
One of the greatest advantages of Ontario-grown raspberries is how quickly they can move through the supply chain. Berries picked one day can be delivered to the Terminal, purchased by distributors, and delivered to customers the very next day. That rapid turnaround helps preserve quality while giving retailers and food service operators access to fruit that’s as fresh as possible.
Choosing the best raspberries
When selecting fresh Ontario raspberries, appearance matters. We recommend looking for berries that are:
- Dry
- Firm
- Bright red in colour
Their delicate nature means they won’t keep as long as some imported berries, making freshness and proper handling especially important. Once purchased, raspberries should be kept cold and dry and enjoyed within one or two days for the best flavour and quality.
Weather plays a major role
Like many soft fruits, raspberries are highly dependent on favourable growing conditions. Warm, stable weather generally produces an excellent crop, while prolonged heat, humidity and severe storms can affect fruit quality and yields.
Heavy heat and humidity can make the fruit softer. Thunderstorms and heavy winds can destroy many parts of crops.
If weather conditions remain favourable, Ontario growers are expecting another strong raspberry season.
A favourite across the food industry
Ontario raspberries are popular across nearly every segment of the food industry. Farm markets and grocery stores often see increased customer interest as soon as local berries become available, while restaurants and cafés incorporate them into seasonal menus.
Chefs use fresh raspberries in everything from breakfast dishes and desserts to sauces, preserves and house-made jams, taking advantage of their vibrant colour and naturally sweet flavour.
More local produce is arriving every week
Raspberries are just one of many Ontario crops now reaching the Terminal. This week we also expect to see local:
- Cherries
- Zucchini
- Pickling cucumbers
- Garlic
As the growing season continues, even more Ontario-grown fruits and vegetables will become available, giving buyers an expanding selection of fresh local produce throughout the summer. It’s an exciting time of year!
Supporting Ontario growers
Choosing Ontario-grown raspberries isn’t just about freshness and flavour. Buying local also supports Ontario farmers, strengthens the provincial food system, and helps reduce reliance on imported produce during the peak growing season.
Keep it local, support farmers, rely less on others.
With Ontario raspberry season now underway, businesses and consumers have another opportunity to enjoy fresh, locally grown produce at its very best.