The Economics of Innovation, Private Certification, and Food Safety in Food Processing Sector in Ontario and Canada

Lead Applicant: Getu Hailu

Research Priority: Competitive Production Systems

Program Type: Tier 1

Funding Cycle: 2026/2027

Research Centre: N/A

Research Summary: This project examines whether private certification (such as food safety or sustainability labels) and food safety practices are helping or holding back the innovation efforts of Ontario’s food processing sector. Data from the 2018 and 2023 editions of Survey on Innovation in the Food Processing Industry from Statistics Canada and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada will be used to explore how businesses are adopting new technologies, improving food safety and responding to changing market demands. The project will identify barriers and opportunities for innovation, examine the role of private certification in market competitiveness and investigate how these factors impact productivity and profitability. The result will be clear, evidence-based insights that enable food processors, policymakers and industry leaders to make informed decisions. This work will support Ontario’s agri-food sector by improving competitiveness, enhancing food safety and strengthening the province’s position in both domestic and global markets.