World Food Day

World Food Day History

World Food Day raises awareness and encourages collective action to help end global hunger. Established by the United Nations' Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) in 1979, this day of observance seeks to address issues relating to food security, malnutrition, poverty, and sustainable agriculture. The main aim is to facilitate access to safe and nutritious food for everyone and to promote events and initiatives that engage communities in addressing these complex challenges.

In Canada, World Food Day holds particular significance as the country is a major global food producer and exporter. With a diverse agricultural industry, Canada contributes significantly to global food security by providing high-quality products to the international market. Additionally, Canada has a history of assisting developing nations through various programs, such as the Canadian Foodgrains Bank that helps provide food assistance and long-term solutions to global hunger. This demonstrates the country's commitment not only to its citizens but also to the broader goal of achieving zero hunger worldwide.

To commemorate World Food Day in Canada, various activities and events take place across the nation. These may include school presentations, community gatherings, and fundraising activities aimed at fighting hunger and promoting awareness of the importance of sustainable agriculture. Organizations, businesses, and individuals are encouraged to participate in these events to show support for the cause and take steps towards achieving a world without hunger. World Food Day is observed annually on October 16th, in alignment with the founding date of the FAO, and serves as an important reminder of the ongoing efforts to eradicate this pressing global issue.

World Food Day facts

• The theme for World Food Day in 2023 was Food standards save lives.
• Approximately 1/3 of all food produced worldwide, about $1 trillion dollars worth, is wasted. The biggest culprits are industrialized countries; they waste almost as much food as the entire production weight of sub-Saharan Africa- 222 million vs 230 million tons.
• Sugarcane is the most produced crop worldwide, followed by maize, rice, wheat, potatoes, soybeans, cassava, tomatoes, bananas, onions, apples, and grapes
• The province of Alberta is renowned for the quality of its beef and has one of the largest beef herds in the world.
• In 1982, the Canadian Foodgrains Bank was founded. It is a partnership of Canadian churches and church-based agencies, working together to end global hunger.

In the News and Trending in Canada for World Food Day

Top things to do in Canada for World Food Day

• Do not waste food. World Food Day promotes Think. Eat. Save. as a way to reduce waste. Think about what you’re buying, plan meals and shop smart. Eat mindfully. Are your eyes too big for your stomach? Save food, save money, save the environment.
• Participate in a visit to local farms and farmer's markets to learn about locally-grown produce and support small-scale farmers. Many markets and farms may host special events, including farm-to-table meals, cooking demonstrations, or guest speakers discussing sustainable agriculture and food security.
• Some cities and communities, like Waterloo, have organized Soup and Bread events to celebrate World Food Day. Local restaurants, cafes, and food vendors donate soups and bread, and attendees pay a small fee to sample all the delicious options. All proceeds go to support local organizations working to address hunger and food security.