Have you ever wondered where your food comes from? The journey from farm to table is full of stories, science, and care—and understanding it is an important part of building food literacy in our community.
Each March, Canada celebrates Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month (CALM), encouraging people of all ages to explore food systems, farming, and sustainability.
But food literacy isn’t just for one month—it’s something we can build every day, right here in Burnaby.
What Is Agriculture Literacy?
Agriculture literacy is about understanding:
- Where food comes from
- How it is grown and produced
- How farmers care for animals and the land
- How our choices affect health and the environment
Programs like the Canadian Agriculture Literacy Challenge, led by Agriculture in the Classroom Canada, encourage students to read, ask questions, and explore how agriculture connects to everyday life. (Source: Agriculture in the Classroom Canada, 2026)
Learn more:
Why Food Literacy Matters
Food literacy helps people:
- Make informed food choices
- Understand nutrition and health
- Appreciate the work behind food production
- Reduce food waste
- Build sustainable habits
It also connects science, environment, and culture—making it a powerful form of real-world learning.
Learning Through Curiosity
The 2026 CALM theme, “Cultivating Curiosity,” encourages learners to:
- Ask questions about farming and food systems
- Explore how animals are cared for
- Understand how farms operate responsibly
Curiosity is the starting point of learning. And food is something everyone can relate to.
Food Literacy at Home
You don’t need a farm to learn about food. Everyday activities can build understanding:
- Cooking meals together
- Reading food labels
- Growing herbs or small plants
- Visiting a farmers market
- Talking about where ingredients come from
These small actions help children connect learning to real life.
Local Ways to Explore Food Literacy in Burnaby
Burnaby Public Library
- Books on cooking, nutrition, and gardening
- Family-friendly workshops
Burnaby Neighbourhood House
- Community kitchens
- Food skills and nutrition programs
- Family learning activities
Local Farmers Markets & Gardens
- Learn about seasonal foods
- Meet local producers
- Explore fresh, local ingredients
Food Literacy and Community
Food connects us all. It reflects culture, tradition, and identity.
In diverse communities like Burnaby:
- Families share recipes across generations
- Cultural foods build connection and belonging
- Learning about food becomes a shared experience
Food literacy is not just about knowledge—it’s about community.
Simple Ways to Get Started
Try one of these this week:
- Cook a new recipe together
- Ask: “Where does this food come from?”
- Visit a local market
- Read a book about farming or food
- Start a small herb garden at home
Small questions can grow into big understanding.
Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month reminds us that food is more than something we eat—it’s something we can learn from.
By building food literacy, we help families make informed choices, support sustainability, and connect with the world around them.
From farm to table, every step tells a story—and every story helps us grow.