In an exclusive interview with SIAL Daily, Tony Melis, CEO of SIAL Canada, discusses emerging trends and the role of SIAL in shaping the future of Canadian agri-food
Canada’s food landscape is as diverse as its population, with demographic shifts and changing consumer preferences leading to new trends in the agri-food market. From the rise of ethnic and global cuisines to a growing focus on sustainability and health-conscious products, the Canadian market is rapidly evolving. Mr Melis outlines how SIAL Canada is addressing the challenges in the industry today through innovation, connectivity, and sustainability-focused solutions.
What are the key trends currently shaping the Canadian agri-food market, and how is SIAL Canada addressing these?
The Canadian agri-food market is being shaped by demographic changes and evolving consumer preferences. The country’s increasingly diverse population is driving demand for a wider range of ethnic and global foods, reflecting Canada’s multiculturalism. Health and sustainability are also key trends, with consumers—especially younger generations—seeking clean-label products, plant-based alternatives, and eco-friendly packaging. Additionally, the economic pressures from inflation have led more consumers to opt for affordable, ready-to-eat meals, reinforcing the demand for convenience and at-home dining solutions.
SIAL Canada addresses these trends by showcasing innovations focused on sustainability, health, and convenience. Platforms like SIAL Dairy and SIAL To-Go highlight products cater to these demands, while the SIAL Innovation Awards celebrate novel food solutions and innovations.
SIAL Canada helps connect buyers to sellers through various matchmaking services including its highly praised Hosted Buyer Program, its online market place, visitor pathways and other innovative ways to help connect people.
What were some of the top innovations at SIAL Canada 2024?
SIAL Canada 2024 showcased a range of innovative products focusing on sustainability, health, and convenience. The event featured the SIAL Innovation Awards, receiving applications from 17 countries. The top winners presented eco-friendly and practical solutions, such as compostable packaging, innovative olive oils, and convenient, health-conscious frozen soups.
Beyond the awards, major trends included a focus on sustainable pleasure, combining ecological goals with comfort-driven products—a response to global crises like the pandemic and inflation. Our SIAL To-Go activation introduced the future of takeaway and ready-to-eat products, catering to the growing demand for convenience.
Overall, SIAL Canada 2024 reinforced its role as a platform for cutting-edge food technologies and trends that meet consumer demands for sustainability, health, and convenience.
How does SIAL Canada contribute to enhancing trade relations and partnerships in the North American and global food sectors?
SIAL Canada strengthens trade relations by connecting global exhibitors and buyers, serving as a key hub for networking and business development. Its Hosted Buyer Program and matchmaking app facilitate targeted connections, helping exhibitors and buyers schedule meetings and identify potential partners efficiently.
The event also attracts international trade delegations, fostering cross-border collaboration. By supporting Canadian companies’ global expansion and providing international businesses access to the North American market, SIAL Canada plays a central role in enhancing international trade.
SIAL Canada 2025
At SIAL Canada 2025, visitors can expect a diverse range of innovative food products reflecting key trends in sustainability, convenience, and health-consciousness. The event will feature the expanded SIAL Start-Up Village, showcasing cutting-edge innovations and nurturing emerging talent in the food industry.
Ready-to-eat meals and convenience-focused products will remain a highlight, building on the success of SIAL To-Go in 2024.
Canadian companies will also play a major role, with pavilions highlighting the nation’s agricultural expertise in areas like dairy, seafood, and fresh produce. SIAL Canada 2025 will serve as a key platform for discovering innovations that shape the future of the food industry.
SIAL Canada alternates locations every year between Toronto and Montreal. SIAL Canada 2025 will be held at the Enercare Centre in Toronto from 29 April to 1 May 2025.