Market vegetables evolution

Vegetable diversity in public markets: between tradition, discovery and renewal.

For your growers, vegetables are more than just products: they're a testament to our connection with the land, our roots and our evolving tastes. Markets have always been shaped by the communities that live near them. Jean-Talon Market, for example, is intimately linked to the history of Little Italy. For a long time, the stalls have reflected this influence: San Marzano tomatoes, zucchini, herbs and, of course, eggplants, essential elements of generous, home-style Italian cuisine.

But the eggplant found in today's markets is no longer uniquely Italian. On the shelves, they come in a wide variety of sizes and colors. There's Black Beauty, a plump North American variety; Rosa Bianca, with its lavender hues; and Ping Tung Long, prized in Taiwanese cuisine. Not forgetting small Thai or African eggplants such as Thai Green or Garden Egg, which enrich West Indian and West African dishes. Each variety has its own identity, culinary heritage and particular way of being prepared. This simple vegetable becomes a bridge between cultures and an invitation to discovery.

This growing diversity is fuelled by a collective desire to make room for new voices in the food system. Thanks to initiatives such as Kiosques de la Relève and emplacements journaliers, public markets offer visibility to small farms, young market gardeners and projects from different communities. They feature unique products such as bitter melon, Asian squash blossom and mafane brède. These new rental formulas enable communities to maintain their culinary heritage while attracting a curious clientele open to discovering new flavors. In this way, public markets are not just places to buy food, but living crossroads where local traditions and cultural heritages meet. 

The diversity of fruits and vegetables on offer reflects our desire to eat differently and build a more inclusive, local food system. This summer, come taste, discuss and explore the diversity of flavours that make our markets and our city so rich!

Ferme Jacques et Diane at the Jean-Talon Market for 50 years. They have adapted their production over the years.