Canadians Shift to Local Food Amid Rising Grocery Costs

UPDATE: A new report reveals that Canadians are increasingly prioritizing local food products as grocery prices surge. Released on October 9, 2023, the biannual Canadian Food Sentiment Index indicates that 51.9% of Canadians now prefer local options, a dramatic rise from 33.5% just one year ago.

The report, based on a survey of nearly 3,000 Canadians, highlights that food inflation remains a critical financial worry, with 80.6% of respondents reporting higher food expenses over the past year. As economic uncertainty grips the nation, many consumers are adapting their purchasing habits, shifting towards local products to combat rising costs.

Sylvain Charlebois, a professor at Dalhousie University and director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab, stated, “Canadians remain deeply concerned about food affordability.” He emphasized that consumers are now shopping more strategically, reflecting a shift in behavior due to ongoing economic pressures.

The survey indicates that 55.8% of respondents regularly verify the origin of their food, a trend that has gained momentum amidst the ongoing trade dispute between Canada and the U.S. “There’s a measurable movement to support Canadian products,” Charlebois explained, suggesting this sentiment could boost local goods during the upcoming holiday season.

With food insecurity at a record high, the data also reveals that 25.5% of Canadians struggle to afford basic food items. Nearly 48.6% are actively seeking out sales and discounts to cope with inflation. Affordability is now the top factor influencing food purchase decisions, followed by nutrition and taste, as consumers navigate their grocery budgets with greater care.