The Food Forum for Industry and Government in Southwestern Ontario (FFIGS) was created in 1993, from an expansion of the Southwestern Ontario Inter-Agency Food Group to include the food industry.

FFIGS began by organizing a workshop in April 1994 for industry, government and academia on current topics related to food safety and quality. This workshop, covering topical food issues, has been held annually since that date and is now established as an important event for food industry and agency personnel. It takes place on the first Wednesday in May, each year.

The workshop:

• informs participants on recent and emerging food issues
• provides venues and ample opportunity for questions and group discussions
• assists in enhancing the working relationship among all agencies

Many participants express the view that these meetings have helped them develop better working relationships with their colleagues and counterparts in other facets of the food supply.