A Taste of Canada: An Introduction to Canadian Food History

Course Description

Why do we eat what we eat? Why do certain foods trigger a strong emotional response in us? Why are certain foods considered sacred? These are some of the questions that we will explore in this course. The study of food reveals important meanings about social status, politics, and identity. This course will serve as an introduction to the fascinating world of food history, which draws from a variety of disciplines, including anthropology, sociology, psychology, political science, and economics. We will be focused on the context of Canada, which will include looking at Indigenous foodways as well as the way industrialization and migrant cuisines have influenced the Canadian food landscape. The course will also feature specific examples from Ottawa, examining the development of our city’s identity through its food scene.

The format of the course will be interactive, featuring engaging discussions, hands-on activities, and guest speakers from various fields connected to food. This will provide students with a good basis of how the history of food in Canada has been shaped throughout the years and the origins of many of the foods and traditions we enjoy today. The course will also cultivate critical academic skills, including analyzing secondary and primary research sources, making an effective presentation as well as writing and communication skills. The course will culminate with a final project where students will be asked to present on a food that holds specific meaning to them.