Canada Food Day, started by food writer Anita Stewart in 2003 as "The World's Longest Barbeque" in support of BSE-affected cattle producers,  has become an annual event and will be celebrated on Saturday, Aug. 4.

The Canadian Federation of Agriculture says it has since transformed into a joint effort by farmers, food producers and restaurants to celebrate Canada's rich culinary heritage and bountiful harvests. On Saturday 250 restaurants nationwide will be serving 100 per cent Canadian menus and chefs across Canada will be competing for various awards.

"Food Day Canada is a great opportunity for people to rediscover how great Canadian food is! We encourage Canadians to choose more Canadian products, more often. Not only are you guaranteed high quality when you buy Canadian, you also support the hundreds of thousands of farmers across the country and jobs across the foodchain," CFA president Ron Bonnett said in the release.

For more information including recipes and restaurants where the event is celebrated, visit the Canada Food Day website.