Farm and Food Awareness Week Highlights Agriculture and Community Connections
The 12th annual Farm and Food Awareness Week has already begun in Manitoba, held from September 20 to 25. The week provides an opportunity for people to learn more about where their food comes from and appreciate the efforts of farmers, producers, and food workers who help bring safe and healthy food to families every day.
This year's theme, "Community and Agriculture: Growing Together," highlights the strong relationship between agriculture and local communities. Farming plays a major role in Manitoba's economy and contributes to the well-being of people across the province. By choosing locally produced food, consumers help support farmers, rural businesses, and community development.
Throughout the week, Manitoba Agriculture is sharing educational resources, videos, and activities through social media and other communication channels. Residents are encouraged to participate by learning more about farming, exploring local food products, and sharing their agricultural experiences. These activities aim to increase public understanding of the food system and the people who work hard to keep it running.
One of the featured initiatives supporting agriculture awareness is the continued investment in Great Tastes of Manitoba, a digital and broadcast program that connects consumers with food grown and produced in the province. Through funding provided under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, support has been announced for future seasons of the program. The initiative helps showcase Manitoba farmers, food processors, and agricultural products while encouraging consumers to buy local.
“Farm and Food Awareness Week is an opportunity to recognize the farmers, producers and food workers who help put safe, high-quality food on our tables every day. The Government of Canada is proud to work with Manitoba and partners across the country to support a strong, resilient, and innovative food system, and agriculture and agri-food sector,” said Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
In addition to supporting public awareness, Manitoba is also focusing on long-term agricultural growth and innovation. The province has established a five-year strategic framework with the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) Food, one of the world's largest food innovation networks. The collaboration will strengthen connections between Manitoba's agriculture sector and international partners working in research, technology, and food innovation.
The partnership creates opportunities for new research projects, knowledge sharing, startup development, and international market access. By working together, Manitoba and EIT Food aim to improve competitiveness, encourage innovation, and support sustainable growth across the agri-food industry. The agreement brings together Manitoba's strengths in food production and applied research with a global network focused on advancing food systems.
Agriculture leaders say awareness weeks like this are important because they help bridge the gap between consumers and producers. Many people are becoming more interested in understanding how food is grown, processed, and delivered. Educational campaigns give families a chance to learn about modern farming practices and the challenges faced by today's agricultural sector.
“Farm and Food Awareness Week is a chance to celebrate the people who grow and produce our food and the communities that support them. Agriculture is an important part of Manitoba’s economy and our communities, and choosing local food helps strengthen those connections,” said Ron Kostyshyn, Manitoba Minister of Agriculture.
The week also includes several community-focused activities. A family-friendly event at the Bruce D. Campbell Farm and Food Discovery Centre offers visitors an opportunity to explore agriculture through interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences. The event is designed to help people of all ages better understand farming and food production in Manitoba.
Another highlight is Local Food Day, observed on September 23. The day celebrates Manitoba farmers and promotes the use of locally grown ingredients. It also recognizes the important role local food plays in supporting families, strengthening communities, and contributing to economic growth across the province.
These initiatives are part of the broader Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), a multi-billion-dollar investment designed to strengthen Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector. The program supports projects that improve innovation, competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience across the industry. Federal, provincial, and territorial governments continue working together to help farmers meet changing market demands and prepare for future challenges.
Farm and Food Awareness Week serves as a reminder of the valuable contributions made by farmers and food producers every day. It encourages consumers to appreciate local agriculture, support Canadian-grown products, and learn more about the journey food takes from farm to table.
As Manitoba celebrates the week, the focus remains on building stronger connections between communities and agriculture while investing in a thriving future for the industry.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave