1.4. Food Service Operations

The Canadian Food and Nutrition System

The Canadian Food and Nutrition System is a complex, multi-sectoral framework that encompasses agriculture, health, social, medical, and economic sectors. It involves a wide range of stakeholders, including federal, provincial, and territorial governments; universities; non-governmental organizations; food industry associations; and private sector entities. Effective coordination and communication among these diverse actors are essential for the system to function efficiently and equitably. 

To support this collaboration, Health Canada developed the Conceptual Model of the Canadian Food and Nutrition System. This model serves as a strategic guide for fostering system-wide interactions. It identifies key areas for data collection, analysis, surveillance, dissemination, and implementation. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of a systematic approach to surveillance that can be extended to related sectors such as research and policy development. By mapping potential linkages among stakeholders, the model provides a foundation for dialogue and collaboration, ultimately aiming to enhance the effectiveness and responsiveness of Canada’s food and nutrition landscape (Government of Canada 2005).