Nutrition students get a firsthand look at Saskatchewan agriculture

On Sept. 1, students from the College of Pharmacy and Nutrition participated in an interactive tour of Saskatchewan’s agriculture and food production sectors. The experience gave students an opportunity to visit local operations, ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of how food moves from farm to table.

Students visited Colburn Farms, the Berry Barn and the Rayner Dairy Research and Teaching Facility, where they learned about different aspects of Saskatchewan’s agricultural and food systems.

The annual tour is a partnership between the College of Pharmacy and Nutrition and Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan. The tour is coordinated by Chantal Issel, nutrition practice coordinator in the college.

Facilitated by Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan, the tour is designed to give students firsthand exposure to farms and feedlots while encouraging questions and discussion about agriculture and food production.

For future dietitians, understanding how food is produced is an important part of developing a well-rounded perspective on nutrition. Experiences such as the farm tour help students connect classroom learning with the people, processes and places behind the food they eat and recommend to others.

The tour also encouraged students to engage directly with producers and agricultural professionals, providing insight into the realities of food production in Saskatchewan.

By gaining firsthand knowledge of local agriculture, students can carry that understanding forward into their future careers and conversations about food, nutrition and health.

The College of Pharmacy and Nutrition thanks Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan and everyone who welcomed students throughout the tour for providing an informative and memorable learning experience.