Features

Serena Viola’s research on accessing culturally significant foods in rural Ontario provides some food for thought.

As a capacity development and extension student, her research is looking at how to make rural communities more inclusive. She believes that food is a crucial starting point.

“When people make and prepare food, it really translates to culture and that is home,” says Serena. “Food can be viewed as an opportunity to build on the importance of cultural representation and inclusivity in rural communities.”

Food prices have been on the rise since last year, and U of G food and agricultural economists say Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has only made the situation worse.

Drs. Mike von Massow and Alfons Weersink, both professors in the Ontario Agricultural College within the Department of Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics, said the invasion will have short-term effects on the global food supply chain and possible long-term consequences, too. 

Food safety and mitigating foodborne illness is top priority for Brenda Zai, M.Sc. food science student. Her sense of curiosity, desire for critical thinking and inclination to be in a lab and research-based environment led her to pursue graduate studies at the University of Guelph (U of G).

“During my food science undergrad at U of G, I thoroughly enjoyed food microbiology, which is what I'm specializing in right now and it's really exciting,” says Brenda.

Oil and food prices are rising because of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and so are the prices of fertilizer.  

Those increased prices could have dire effects including malnutrition, said a University of Guelph researcher.  

Dr. Manish Raizada is a professor in the Department of Plant Agriculture in the Ontario Agricultural College. His lab focuses on developing low-cost technologies that reduce the need for synthetic nitrogen fertilizers and pesticides to grow corn and other crops, by replacing the products with more natural, biological resources. 

Felix Yip graduated from the bachelor of science, food science program in 2019. He now works as a Product Development Coordinator for Maple Lodge Farms based in Brampton, Ontario. We recently chatted with Felix to learn more about his role and University of Guelph experience.

While Canada and many other western nations are moving quickly to impose sanctions on Russia over its action in Ukraine, a University of Guelph trade and policy research says it is likely only average Russians the sanctions will hurt.

Dr. Sylvanus Kwaku Afesorgbor is a professor in U of G’s Department of Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics who researches international trade and globalization and has examined how trade sanctions have affected political outcomes.

Building vibrant rural communities requires innovation, redefining policy in rural contexts, and stepping outside of your comfort zone.

Ashleigh Weeden, PhD candidate in rural studies, is an advocate for rural communities and improving life through place-based, innovative public policy.

"Let’s raise a fork to the food we love and the people who produce it! This February, celebrate Canadian agriculture and food both online and with friends, family and co-workers, and let everyone know how you feel about this awesome industry." -Canada's Agriculture Day website

Angela Asuncion, recent graduate of the M.Sc. in rural planning and development - international development studies program, has been shaped by their experiences as an immigrant in Canada, which directly ties to their passion and research.

The Ambassador Bridge may be open again at Windsor, Ont., but blockades continue at multiple border crossings, and that could have long-lasting and damaging effects on Canada’s important trade relationship with its closest neighbour, says a University of Guelph researcher.

Dr. Sylvanus Kwaku Afesorgbor is a professor in U of G’s Department of Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics who researches international trade, political economy and globalization.