It’s that time of year again when we start planning The Granary’s Annual Chocolate Party. This local event has become anticipated by our customers and community. It is a fun event with lots of tasty treats. The topic of Chocolate may seem like an easy one – everyone loves chocolate right? The truth is, we celebrate chocolate for more than its velvety smooth texture and oh so good taste. We celebrate good chocolate because good chocolate, (along with a few other wonderful things like good coffee and good tea) embody all of the core values The Granary holds so dear.

As a lifelong self proclaimed environmentalist, there are some values that I hold in high regard and I try hard to incorporate those values not only into my personal life but my business too. Good Chocolate, like those we celebrate on Saturday Dec 2 & 3 at the annual Chocolate Party, follow the majority of my core ideals including.

Organic Agriculture – an ecological method of agricultural production that respects the natural environment. Organics focuses on enhancing the health and vitality of the soil, preserving biodiversity, promoting animal welfare and preserving the ecological integrity of our environment. The majority of the chocolate we sell, and all the chocolate we celebrate, is produced using organic agriculture practices.
Non-GMO – Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are living organisms whose genetic material has been artificially manipulated in a laboratory through genetic engineering, or GE. While there are some good arguments in favour of genetic modification, I believe strongly that the consumer has the right to know. When purchasing chocolate I look for companies that clearly state they do not contain GMOs
Fair Trade – Fairly traded products support social justice and fair labour. This is especially important when it comes to chocolate (and coffee) as these industries have traditionally turned a blind eye to social justice and instead have supported child labour, un fair work wages and other social injustices. Sourcing Fair Trade Certified Chocolate is very important for small scale farmers in third world countries whose livelihoods and happiness depend on receiving a fair wage.
Local – At The Granary, we know that organic and local go better together. While cacao is not a local product, there are some pretty amazing local companies making chocolate and hiring Canadian workers. Many of our celebrated chocolate companies like Camino from Ottawa, Giddy Yoyo from Orangeville Ontario, Hummingbird in Almonte and more support the buy local mandate.

Join us Saturday Dec 2 & 3 for a fun filled day of good Chocolate and the important values that go along with good Chocolate!

Chocolate Party

Chocolate Party 2022