New research shows rising confidence in Canada’s food system

The Canadian Centre for Food Integrity has released its annual Public Trust Research, showing Canadians have renewed optimism and growing confidence in Canada’s food system. But trust, while rising, remains delicate.

This year’s data shows a significant shift: nearly half (45%) of Canadians believe the food system is headed in the right direction — a 14-point increase from 2024, when only 31 per cent felt the same. 

Public confidence in the food system has rebounded to a five-year high, but context matters. Much like the “support Canada” movement during the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s survey was conducted amid a new wave of pro-Canada sentiment, fueled by trade tensions and global political uncertainty.

“While the circumstances differ from 2020, the outcome is similar: the essential but often under-appreciated role of Canada’s food system has once again been thrust into the spotlight, both nationally and locally,” said Ashley Bruner, director of research and stakeholder engagement, Canadian Centre for Food Integrity. “Positive impressions are rising, but they remain fragile.”