Waterloo Region's food system plan journey began with a Region of Waterloo Public Health report called Towards a Healthy Community Food System in Waterloo. Here, the need for cross-sectoral cooperation on priority food-related issues was identified. The establishment of The Food System Roundtable of Waterloo Region (the Roundtable) resulted from a 2006 forum after consultation with the community and stakeholders. Eight members comprised the start-up committee to develop the Roundtable's Terms of References for a year until the final committee of 18 members was selected. Ellen Desjardins and Steffanie Scott led the organization as co-chairs. The Roundtable was officially recognized in November 2007 at a public launch event.
