Stakeholder Newsletter March 2025

Responding in real time to consumer concerns

Consumer perceptions are multifaceted and ever-evolving, requiring us to be prepared to address a wide range of questions and concerns about Canadian food and agriculture. This adaptability is crucial for fostering a more informed and engaged public. A recent example is Canadians' response to US tariffs, which sparked increased interest in sourcing local ingredients and exploring our national culinary identity. Canadian Food Focus (CFF) quickly pivoted to highlight seasonal content, classic Canadian dishes, and information on labeling distinctions such as "Made in Canada" vs. "Product of Canada," as well as highlighting Canadian assurance labels like the Blue Cow label.

Our readiness extends beyond culinary interests. March is not only Nutrition Month; it is also the month the Environmental Working Group releases its annual "Dirty Dozen" list. We are prepared to counter fear-based campaigns with balanced information. Additionally, we're continuously developing content in several areas to address Canadians' concerns about agriculture and food, including Celebrating Canadian Food, Cost Saving Food Tips, Health and Wellness Insights, Animal Care, Innovation on the Farm, Keeping Food Safe, Learn about Plant Science, Reducing Food Waste, and Sustainability on the Farm.

By providing balanced information and practical advice on these diverse aspects, we're equipping consumers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about food purchases and consumption. This comprehensive, food literacy approach not only enhances consumer understanding but also strengthens the connection between Canadians and their food system.

Warm regards,

Dorothy Long, Managing Director

dorothy@canadianfoodfocus.org

COMMUNICATING

Food is a powerful connector, teacher, and a storyteller. We leverage Canadians’ intrinsic interest in food as a gateway to broader discussions about agriculture. By starting the conversation about what’s on their plates, CFF can lead consumers to a richer understanding of where their food comes from and how it is grown, ultimately fostering a more informed and appreciative community.

Research from the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity shows that the most important issue to Canadians in their day-to-day lives is the cost of food.

Check out our articles with tips on eating better and saving money at the grocery store. These resources empower consumers with practical advice and strategies to manage their food expenses without compromising on nutrition or quality.

We partnered on an Indigenous recipe project aimed at showcasing traditional foods from Indigenous cultures prepared by Indigenous chefs and cooks. The project also included an Indigenous community advisory group to ensure that the project was meaningful and culturally appropriate.

CFF is continually assessing what information consumers are searching for and how they are consuming it online. This allows us to provide timely, interesting and evidence-based content including our new reels series about food, nutrition or healthy eating in partnership with Registered Dietitian Sue Mah.

CONNECTING

In February, we participated in a panel discussion on Public Perceptions of Agriculture at the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) Annual General Meeting alongside esteemed colleagues from Fertilizer Canada, Canadian Centre for Food Integrity / Centre canadien pour l’intégrité alimentaire, Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance, and Agriculture in the Classroom Canada.

On Thursday, April 9th, Dorothy will participate in an industry discussion on building trust in Canadian agriculture and food. The event will be part of the Canadian Produce Marketing Association’s Convention and Trade Show in Montreal, April 7-11, 2025.

We are partnering with Dietitians of Canada during Nutrition Month 2025 to offer an timely presentation on Canadian cuisine and flavours.

COLLABORATORS & PARTNERS

Working with industry experts is important to ensure the science-based agriculture and food articles on CanadianFoodFocus.org are accurate and reliable. By partnering with professionals in farming, crop science, food science and nutrition, we share the latest research and helpful information so people can make informed choices about their food.

Our Trusted Partners & Collaborators