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By Alice McFarlane

Increasing confidence

New Research shows rising confidence in Canada’s food system

Oct 31, 2025 | 10:49 AM

The Canadian Centre for Food Integrity (CCFI) has released its annual Public Trust Research, showing Canadians have renewed optimism and growing confidence in Canada’s food system.

But trust, while rising, remains delicate.

This year’s data shows a significant shift: nearly half of Canadians believe the food system is headed in the right direction — a 14-point increase from 2024, when only 31 per cent felt the same.

Public confidence in the food system has rebounded to a five-year high, but context matters. Much like the “support Canada” movement during the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s survey was conducted amid a new wave of pro-Canada sentiment, fueled by trade tensions and global political uncertainty, according to Ashley Bruner, CCFI Director of Research and Stakeholder Engagement.

“While the circumstances differ from 2020, the outcome is similar: the essential but often under-appreciated role of Canada’s food system has once again been thrust into the spotlight, both nationally and locally. Positive impressions are rising, but they remain fragile,” Bruner said.

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To hold onto this elevated trust, the sector must turn temporary attention into lasting connections. Trust and transparency ratings for scientists and farmers remain at the top, showing the growing importance of science and research in shaping public perceptions.

The survey also asked Canadians to share their level of worry about more than 20 different issues, including health care costs, inflation and the economy. The results show the cost of food, while down 4 points from last year, remains the top concern for 47 per cent of Canadians.

CCFI Executive Director Lisa Bishop-Spencer said public trust is the foundation of a strong and resilient agrifood system.

“The food system is not a simple chain, but a web woven through Canadians’ lives, connecting economy, health, culture and community. This insight should give us all reason to turn this moment into momentum,” Bishop-Spencer said.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com