MONTREAL – With summer on our doorsteps, the IGA banner is introducing a barbecue experience inspired by the pleasure of eating well: it's now offering Nagano pork. A product of the Quebec terroir, prized by the Japanese and recognized by chefs at home, Nagano pork is superior-quality pork with distinct attributes, raised here in Yamachiche, Quebec.
Thanks to a partnership between Sobeys Quebec and the pork producer and processor Aliments Lucyporc, Quebec consumers can now discover all the finesse of prime pork, named Nagano since the concept was developed when the Olympic Games were taking place in Nagano, Japan.
With barbecue season in full swing, the enthusiasm is palpable at Sobeys Quebec, where the teams in charge of developing and merchandising Nagano pork are seeing the results of their work finally reach Quebec dinner tables. Quebeckers are the first consumers to be able to purchase this product in a broad network of supermarkets, and it's only at their IGA store that they'll find this exceptional meat.
"We're very proud to offer this superior-quality product to all our customers. Nagano pork, available in various cuts of meat, is produced to high quality standards," states Ms. Suzanne Gagnon, Director of Commercial Program Development at Sobeys Quebec. "Greater marbling makes Nagano pork exceptionally tender and flavourful. Combined with a 10-day aging period, this characteristic enables us to offer a very fine meat."
According to Mr. Jean-Guy Vincent, president of the Fédération des Producteurs de Porcs du Québec, this partnership will benefit not only Quebec pork businesses, but consumers who are constantly seeking new and innovative ways to enjoy pork. "Here's a good example of how the population can benefit from the expertise of Quebec's pork producers and processors. This collaboration offers a superior-quality product that will be available all across the province. It's a partnership that will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the entire Quebec pork industry, in terms of both economic development and sustainability."
Nagano pork, exclusively at your IGA store
Until very recently, almost the entire Nagano pork production was reserved for certain Quebec hotels and restaurants. Now that Nagano pork is available at the butcher's counter of their local IGA store, Quebec consumers will be able to discover a selection of wonderfully tender and flavourful cuts of pork, all perfect for the barbecue.
Thrill your taste buds! Your IGA retailer invites you to include Nagano pork on your summer menu. It can be prepared and enjoyed in countless ways! Pick up some Nagano pork cubes and thread them on skewers for savoury souvlaki. Marinate a Nagano pork tenderloin in a delicate orange-ginger sauce and then grill it up on the barbecue for a gourmet meal! Treat yourself to an Oriental version of the hamburger made with lean ground Nagano pork, this summer's must-try trend.
For a summer of grilling Nagano pork, consult the flavourful recipes and tips at www.iga.net, or go to the Vive la bouffe Facebook page, www.facebook.com/vivelabouffe.
About IGA
IGA is the largest group of independent grocers in Canada, and its presence in Quebec dates to 1953. IGA retailers strive constantly to find better ways to serve their clientele.
Source: IGA