Canola: Canadian, eh?

March 16, 2018

A healthy vegetable oil that most of us use every week in everything from stir-fries to salads—canola oil—is a result of the ingenuity of Canadian plant researchers who took on the challenge of creating a healthy oil from an unfamiliar plant that was known to thrive on the Prairies. After decades of collaboration and hard work, they succeeded in developing what has become one of Canada's most important and recognizable crops.

Canadians can now learn about the potential of the bright yellow flower and the creativity of our farmers, through the "Canola! Seeds of Innovation" exhibit, which was launched in June 2017. It has a traveling component that will go across the country during the next five years. The multimedia exhibit will explain the history of canola, how it differs from other plants and oils, and how it is used.

The Ottawa exhibit is on display at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum, and is a successful educational forum that continues to draw visitors. Many have passed through the bright yellow displays and felt proud about this Canadian wonder.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is committed to exploring opportunities to partner with organizations—like the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum—that want to help tell the story of Canadian agricultural accomplishments with the aim of instilling pride and increasing knowledge among Canadians. This partnership is an example of our ongoing commitment to Canadians to connect with the amazing imagination that lives within us and to take pride in the accomplishments that inspire us.

Interested in hosting the travelling exhibit? Contact the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum. If you happen to be in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan, check out the exhibit that is there now until April 15, 2018.

There are plans for additional stops elsewhere in Canada. Read more about the traveling exhibition and travel Schedule.

Here's to many more years of success for this truly "made in Canada" crop!