AAFC announces Members of Canadian Food Policy Advisory Council

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Author: Sustain Ontario

Posted: February 19, 2021

Categories: Food in the News / GoodFoodBites

On February 19, 2021, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) announced the membership of the Canadian Food Policy Advisory Council, a central component of the Food Policy for Canada.

“The Canadian Food Policy Advisory Council’s 23 members bring together diverse expertise and perspectives from across the food system, including the agriculture and food sector, health professionals, academics, and non-profit organizations,” the news release states. “Members also represent Canada’s geographic and demographic diversity.”

AAFC shares that the Advisory Council will:

report to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
advise on current and emerging issues
enable ongoing dialogue on food-related challenges and opportunities
share information and best practices
assess gaps in policies and data
advise on implementation of the Food Policy’s four priority action areas to advance progress towards the six priority outcomes

The four near-term action areas are to:

Help Canadian communities access healthy food
Make Canadian food the top choice at home and abroad
Support food security in Northern and Indigenous communities
Reduce food waste

Six long-term outcomes:

Vibrant communities
Increased connections within food systems
Improved food-related health outcomes
Strong Indigenous food systems
Sustainable food practices
Inclusive economic growth

The 23 Canadian Food Policy Advisory Council Members:

Jean-François Archambault
Sylvie Cloutier
Heather Deck
Julie Dickson Olmstead
Evan Fraser
Sonny Gray
Marcel Groleau
Christopher (Chris) Hatch
Lynda Kuhn
Elizabeth Kwan
Joseph LeBlanc
Catherine L. Mah
Larry McIntosh
Rosie Mensah
Lori Nikkel
Denise Philippe
Melana Roberts
Mary Robinson
Brenda Schoepp
Wendy Smith
Avni Soma
Connor Williamson
Gisèle Yasmeen

“Whether it’s food insecurity, food fraud, food waste, or promoting the good stories of our agricultural producers, collaboration is the key,” shares the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “This Advisory Council is a first-of-its kind in Canada, and reflects our vision for a sustainable food system in Canada built on an inclusive approach. Each of these members has a unique set of experiences and knowledge that will help improve the way Government programs are developed and implemented. I can’t wait for our first discussion!”

Learn more about each member and the Food Policy for Canada on the Government of Canada’s website.