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Sometimes, all it takes is 30 minutes to learn the ins and outs of new food technologies and trends that are transforming the food and beverage industry. In this series, we’ll dig into a food innovation topic and link you to content and resources so you can become a master on the topic in 30 minutes (or less!).
This week, we’re looking at Food Day Canada, which takes place August 5, 2023.
The Overview
Food Day Canada takes place each year on the Saturday before the first Monday in August, although some businesses celebrate for the week or even the month. This year is Food Day Canada’s 20th anniversary.
The day was established by cookbook author and food historian and activist Anita Stewart in 2003 as the “World’s Longest Barbecue” in support of Canadian beef producers. Although the event was intended to help producers struggling with U.S. border closures during BSE, it became an annual celebration of locally grown and produced food.
Today Food Day Canada encourages consumers to shop, cook and dine on Canadian-made products, and is supported by farmers, fishers, restaurants, food researchers, chefs, food retailers, and food and beverage companies across the country.
Resources
The Food Day Canada website offers a downloadable partner toolkit that includes graphics and an action kit with information on how to participate in the event. The site also offers a list Food Day Canada partners, as well as Anita Stewart’s favourite Canadian recipes and ingredients, including sourcing information.
What you Need to Know
The Food Day in Canada Act was passed by the Government of Canada in May 2023 to officially designate the Saturday before the first Monday in August as Food Day in Canada. The day officially celebrates Canadian-grown food and those who contribute to Canada’s agriculture, food and culinary industries.
Get Involved
Consumers, food businesses, grocers, farmers, chefs, event organizers, educators, restaurateurs and more can get involved by signing the Food Day Canada pledge to support Canadian food and the people who grow, produce, and make it. Consumers and businesses can tag their efforts on social media with #FoodDayCanada.
Overtime
If you’ve got more than 30 minutes, these are for you:
YODL - CFIN discusses Food Day Canada 2023 with Crystal Mckay
