Farms.com Home   Expert Commentary

OFA: Celebrate Canadian Agriculture and food this month

Feb 13, 2017

By Debra Pretty-Straathof, Director Ontario Federation of Agriculture

There’s always a lot to celebrate in Canadian agriculture – safe and nutritious food, accessible markets, pride in being a part of such as successful and innovative industry, and so much more. This month marks two special celebrations in Canadian agriculture – Food Freedom Day and Canada’s Agriculture Day.

Food Freedom Day was February 8 this year. It’s the calendar date when the average Canadian has earned enough income to pay for their groceries for the year. Food Freedom Day is calculated by the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) and according to their calculations, Canadians spent an average of 10% of their disposable income on food and beverages in 2016. This means that Canadians enjoy some of the lowest food costs in the world. We are fortunate to have an abundance of affordable, fresh, local food, world-class food processors and stringent food safety protocols. As an organization representing most of Ontario’s farmers, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) recognizes how fortunate farmers are to have consumers who support us and our products.

Canada’s Agriculture Day is a new celebration this year, it’s a day specifically for farmers. February 16 marks a new event that brings special attention to our agricultural industry and the pride we share in growing food. Canada’s Agriculture Day is part of Farm Credit Canada’s Ag More Than Ever campaign and organizers are encouraging everyone to mark the day in their own way, to celebrate Canadian agriculture in engaging, fun and respectful ways. From organizing an event to enjoying an all-Canadian meal, Canada’s Agriculture Day is a toast to our industry. OFA encourages everyone to participate and share their celebrations. For more information, celebration ideas and social engagement tools visit CdnAgDay.ca.

With a food system that is second to none, worldwide, we have reason to be proud. We’re part of Ontario’s number one industry and one of the largest economic drivers in the province. Sometimes we need to remind ourselves that we’re also part of a bigger picture – putting food on tables across the country and around the world. Now that’s something to celebrate.
 

Source: OFA