Looking at the Basics of Unique Processing & Branding
Now that we’ve recovered from the 2020 season, we’re looking at the busy spring and summer ahead. We can reflect on this season and consider what went well, what went wrong and where we’ll adjust to optimize our farms.
What is Value Added Processing?
Value added processing, in its simplest form, is going the extra mile to convert your raw product into a marketable one. Examples of value added processing in agriculture include:
- Jams and jellies
- Beef jerky
- Sauces and seasonings
- Salad kits
- Flower arrangements
- Soaps
- Sausages
Simply, anything that you are converting from raw product in some sort of processing including seperation, packaging, cooling, dryer or other processes.
How Can it Help My Farm?
Simply, value added processing can add a unique angle for your farm to market its products with. Additionally, value added products can help your farm develop its own distinct brand.
The value added strategy has been found to be particularly lucrative in tourism-based sectors and farmer’s markets.
Take a look at this video produced by the BC Honey Association on value added processor in the Columbia Valley, Beeland:
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Read the Ministry of Agriculture Guide to Value Added Processing: this piece defines what type of processing is considered to be value added for food and agriculture production.
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Check out last year’s presentation on the strategy, tactics and levels of Agritourism: this presentation focused on how BC farms can use agritourism as a diversification tool. Value added processing is a desirable asset for agritourism; the two strategies can go hand-in-hand.
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Farm Kitchen in Cranbrook offers great opportunities for learning and processing. Rent commercial space or take a course to learn a new skill, such as the upcoming Kombucha workshop!
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College of the Rockies offers many Continuing Education opportunities to enhance business and value added processing knowledge. Current offerings include building business plans, cannabis processing, pesticide application and shrub pruning.
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For marketing and business planning supports, connect with the Basin Business Advisors. agriculture specialist, Nyree Marsh
