A new communications initiative was launched in March to promote Ontario ginseng to audiences around the world. A set of videos shed light on how the high-value specialty crop is grown and processed to meet a growing demand both domestically and abroad.

The project was undertaken by the Ontario Ginseng Growers’ Association (OGGA), one of AAC's 55 member organizations that represent Ontario's agri-food sector. The videos tackle challenges in cultivating the crop, the labour-intensive aspects of harvest and processing, the industry's dedication to quality assurance and the attributes contributing to Ontario-grown ginseng's reputation as the highest quality product available globally. Nearly 95 per cent of Ontario's ginseng is grown for the export market.

This project is the latest in a series of videos funded by AAC's Membership Farm Food 360 Program, a partnership with Farm and Food Care Ontario which assists AAC member organizations in promoting their sectors and building consumer trust in food grown and processed in Ontario.

The centerpiece of the project is a virtual tour highlighting the experiences of the Mel Family who operate Brilin Farm, an OGGA member near Simcoe. The immersive video, shot with 360 technology, explores how this unique specialty crop is grown and harvested, and captures the dedication and expertise required to produce high-quality Ontario ginseng. A further video segment explores the delicate art of ginseng processing as explained by Schelling Yeh of Great Mountain Ginseng.

Link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1caTGDYdr4

Source:  Farm & Food Care Ontario March 28, 2025 newsletter