Agri-food and Beverage

If you want to grow food for the world, you have to break ground. And if you want to be innovative in the way you provide food, you need to break new ground. Welcome to Nova Scotia—where we check both boxes with confidence.

With fertile farmland, a temperate maritime climate, and access to world-class research facilities like Perennia, Nova Scotia is a hub for innovation in agriculture and food production. Known for our premium exports, award-winning wines, and a booming craft beverage sector, we provide a dynamic ecosystem for businesses in these industries.

All the right ingredients 

Given Nova Scotia’s growing array of products, along with our international reputation for high food safety standards, it’s no wonder food importers from around the world are exploring our commodities. In 2023, Nova Scotia exported $507 million of agri-food products to more than 100 countries around the world thanks to excellent cold chain logistics, fresh and frozen controlled-atmosphere storage, bulk shipping, and convenient international access via air, water, rail, and road. Our strategic location ensures efficient access to global markets, while our skilled workforce and commitment to sustainability make the province an ideal destination for forward-thinking agri-food and beverage ventures.

Processing prowess

Encompassing products from artisanal cheeses to plant powders made from dried, surplus fruits and vegetables, Nova Scotia’s food manufacturing ranges from small cottage industries to internationally traded commodities. Over a fifth of all manufacturing workers in the province are employed in food manufacturing. The industry’s commitment to high quality, safe food is highlighted by the various food processor associations active in the province, including Taste of Nova Scotia, the Farmers’ Markets of Nova Scotia, and the Canadian Food Exporters Association.

Agri-tech advancements

Nova Scotia supports a globally recognized tech sector. The province is consistently exploring new ways to increase food production and processing while ensuring our world-class sustainable and safety standards are met. The sector, and its facilities, are modernizing by testing and adopting innovative technology to respond to new opportunities and challenges.

With more than 2,700 farms and approximately 16,000 jobs directly linked to industry, Nova Scotia produces an abundant supply of agricultural commodities and ingredients for export.

FIGURES AND FACTS

Fast Facts

• In 2023, Nova Scotia exported $507 million of agri-food products to more than 93 countries
• The province is a leading producer of apples, blueberries, cranberries, and corn
• Dairy farming accounts for nearly 25% of Nova Scotia’s agricultural revenue
• Nova Scotia has more than 20 wineries and is home to Tidal Bay, Canada’s first appellation wine
• There are more than 60 craft breweries across Nova Scotia

Leading Food Research Labs

These are a few of Nova Scotia’s notable research facilities nurturing success in the agri-food and beverage industries.

Perennia Food and Agriculture Inc.

Supports agri-food innovation with services in food safety, product development, and crop management, providing a state-of-the-art Food Development and Innovation Centre for new product development.

Dalhousie University Faculty of Agriculture

Houses the Agricultural Campus Bio-Environmental Engineering Centre, focused on renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, crop science, and food production technologies. 

Kentville Research and Development Centre

Focused on the development of fruit and vegetable crops, soil health, and pest management, this centre is known for research supporting the apple, blueberry, and grape industries.

Acadia Laboratory for Agri-food and Beverage (ALAB)

Working closely with Nova Scotia’s growing agri-food and beverage industry, ALAB provides state of the art research and analytical services to the wine, craft beverage, and food industries.

NSCC’s EATLab

Supports innovation in the agri-food and beverage industries by helping local businesses and entrepreneurs develop, test, and refine food and beverage products through applied research.