Canada's food guide
Phases of the Evidence Review Cycle
The Evidence Review Cycle (ERC) is composed of several phases, and is designed to be iterative and flexible. Each phase of the ERC follows its own process and may include multiple steps. Phases may overlap or repeat before continuing through the rest of the ERC.
On this page
Phases of the Evidence Review Cycle
Gather
Evidence is gathered on an ongoing basis for each of the three key input areas: scientific basis, Canadian context, and use of guidance. The types of evidence gathered, and how frequently evidence is gathered, varies depending on the key input area.
Types of evidence gathered include:
- academic literature
- reports published by credible scientific bodies
- survey data, for example, Canadian Community Health Survey
- nutrition-related enquiries including:
- public inquiries
- media inquiries
- nutrition topics trending on social media
- scans including grey literature, such as:
- Government reports
- technical reports
- country-specific food-based dietary guidelines
- information collected from users of dietary guidance through activities such as:
- surveys
- user testing
- consultations
- discussion groups
- public opinion research
- key informant interviews
Assess
Evidence collected during the gather phase is assessed on an ongoing basis and analyzed to identify findings that may have impacts on dietary guidance. Evidence is assessed in view of keeping guidance:
- useful
- relevant
- scientifically sound
In some cases analysis may indicate the need to gather and assess additional evidence or take action.
Synthesize
This phase allows for a review of findings across the key input areas. This helps draw broader insights to inform decision-making, based on a thorough understanding of current evidence and the context in which people make food choices.
Identify actions
Following synthesis, areas that could require action are identified. We assess various options while also considering roles, public health priorities, and stakeholder perspectives where appropriate.
Act
Actions related to dietary guidance are taken as needed. These actions can include:
- knowledge translation activities
- awareness and education activities
- recommending changes to dietary guidance
- further evidence gathering across the three key input areas
Evaluation
Continuous improvement is central to the ERC to maintain rigour in the evidence review processes. The ERC and its methods are reviewed periodically to ensure it continues to meet its objectives and to identify where the cycle, or its components, may need to be strengthened.
Stakeholder engagement
Stakeholder input is sought at points throughout the ERC to help strengthen the process. For example, subject matter experts may be engaged to assess the methodology used to gather food and health evidence. Feedback from health professionals, policymakers, and the public may be used as evidence related to the use of guidance.