Why it Matters
Every meal connects you to millions of Canadians working across the food system. From farms and food manufacturing to transportation, retail and restaurants, Canada’s food industry supports communities, careers and our economy every day.
Why We Do It
Every meal you enjoy, from your morning coffee to your family’s weekend dinner, connects you to something bigger than your plate. Canada’s food system is more than fields and grocery aisles—it’s a network of people, businesses and careers stretching across the country.
According to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 1 in 9 jobs in Canada are connected to the food system. That’s more than 2.3 million Canadians helping grow, process, transport, prepare and serve the food we rely on every day.
Career Types
Each of these roles is a piece of Canada’s Food System. Together, they create not just meals but livelihoods, communities, and economic strength.
Providing the seed, fertilizer, and crop inputs that support food production.
Growing and raising the crops and livestock that become our food.
Transforming raw agricultural products into the foods Canadians enjoy every day.
Protecting food quality, freshness, and safety from production to purchase.
Moving food efficiently across Canada, in every season.
Monitoring food safety, quality, and compliance throughout the food system.
Connecting Canadians with food through stores, markets, and restaurants.
Establishing standards that support a safe, reliable food system.
Advancing new ideas and technologies that strengthen Canada’s Food System.
Providing financing and services that help food businesses grow and invest.
Canada’s food industry contributes nearly $150 billion annually to Canada’s economy while supporting communities from coast to coast.
When Canadians purchase food—whether grown here or imported through Canada’s food supply chain—they support businesses, workers and communities that help keep the entire food system moving.
A strong food system depends on people. Across production, processing, manufacturing, transportation, inspection, retail, food service, research, and many other fields, skilled workers keep food moving and the system functioning every day.
These careers help Canada’s Food System adapt to change, maintain a reliable food supply, support communities, and contribute to economic growth. Like many sectors, parts of the food system also face workforce challenges, making it increasingly important to attract and retain the people and skills the system needs for the future.
The next time you sit down for a meal, remember that every bite represents the work of millions of Canadians. From before the farm gate to beyond your plate, Canada’s Food System helps feed communities, supports local economies and creates meaningful careers across the country.
Explore Resources
Learn more about the people, businesses and industries that keep Canada’s Food ystem moving—and discover how you can support the future of food in Canada.
Explore those driving agriculture. CAHRC offers insights on workforce planning and enhancing food system jobs.
Visit CAHRC's site
Listen to Canadian farmers and learn about agriculture’s economic impact, policy priorities, and food system challenges.
Visit CFA's site
Learn about the many jobs available in our food system and find out what careers might be for you!
Visit ThinkAG's site
Explore how food is grown and raised, with advice from experts on helping Canadians become more confident food consumers.
Visit CFF's site
Get Involved
Learn more about Canada's Food System, share what you've discovered and join thousands of Canadians supporting the people behind our food.
