Top marks for food safety

Canada has scored top marks for the quality and safety of its food supply.

According to The Economist Intelligence Unit – the same organization responsible for ranking Vancouver among the world’s most livable cities – the country earns top marks for safety net programs ensuring access to food, nutritional standards and protein quality.

These are just three of 13 strengths that ranked Canada twelfth out of 113 countries.

While the public and pundits have both noted concern about rising food prices, the rankings indicate that Canada has seen a third of the inflation seen in the world at large. Our food systems continue to provide affordable food, with virtually no political or social barriers to safe and nutritious food. A relatively low rate of poverty and a diverse range of crops means most people can access culturally appropriate foods.

BC alone produces more than 200 agrifood products, and is home to 3,000 food processors catering to diverse appetites and dietary preferences and requirements.

Moreover, market access and the financial services needed to support farm businesses are in place to ensure what farmers and processors produce can reach the people and markets that require it.

While no challenges were called out, Canada does have notable weak spots. Its natural environment is highly sensitive, particularly with respect to water. Political willingness to address adaptation and invest in agricultural research and development could also improve.