Poutine would become Canada’s national food under a House of Commons petition sponsored by independent MP Kevin Vuong (Spadina-Fort York, ON), according to Blacklock’s Reporter. .“Poutine can serve as a vehicle to bridge differences between us and unite Canadians in conversation over a dish we can generally agree is delicious,” said Toronto poutine enthusiasts in a petition. .These enthusiasts ask an Act of Parliament proclaim poutine as Canada’s signature dish. The petition is open for signatures until September 29. .They said poutine lovers can be found in all political parties and regions and among all religions and races. .“Maple syrup is not a dish,” they said. .“Poutine is a quintessential Canadian comfort food.”.Global Affairs Canada acknowledged poutine’s status by promoting it at a Taste of Kanada campaign for Germans at Oktoberfest in Munich in 2022. .Canada has no signature dish. Emblems designated by Acts of Parliament include the beaver as the national symbol in 1975, the maple as national tree in 1996 and the Canadian breed as national horse in 2002. .Canadian authorities have been searching for the all-Canadian meal since the 1946 Travel Bureau launched a campaign to develop a distinct cuisine..Cabinet protested in 1959 when Bantam Books published the Round-The-World Cookbook, which stated Canadians are “exceedingly fond of potatoes and they eat enormous quantities of them.”.The Department of Industry launched a New Tourism Vision campaign in 2017 to make Canada a destination for international travellers seeking famous culinary experiences. No final conclusion was reached on an all-Canadian dish. .It said in a 2018 report Canada is “seen to be falling somewhat short in its perception of the ability to deliver a positive food experience.” While lacking in that area, it said Canada does offer many more important experiences valued by travellers, which are higher on this list of motivators. .“Canada is not perceived to offer a widely adventurous cuisine beyond unique meats,” it said. .“Canada is not known for a particular dish or cuisine.”.Global Affairs Canada attempted to spark a debate about how the cheese curds which top poutine should look in January. .READ MORE: Canadian government asks if poutine should have whole or shredded curds.“Some folks eat theirs the traditional way with curds and others use shredded cheese,” said Global Affairs Canada. .“Are you team cheese curd or team shredded?”
