Canadians Are Changing Their Eating Habits Amid Rising Food Prices
New data shows that Canadians are significantly adjusting the way they eat and spend as rising food prices continue to squeeze household budgets across the country.
New data shows that Canadians are significantly adjusting the way they eat and spend as rising food prices continue to squeeze household budgets across the country.
A recent Statista survey reveals that many Canadians are cutting back on non-essential food expenses, including eating out less and reducing their meat consumption, as they struggle to navigate the cost-of-living crisis.
According to Kirstin Beardsley, CEO of Food Banks Canada, “nearly one in five Canadians have reported going hungry in the last two years.” Food prices in Canada have also risen faster than the overall inflation rate for 10 consecutive months, suggesting these changes may be long-lasting rather than temporary.
In a survey of 1,622 adults, nearly 62% said they now eat out less because of the rising cost of food. Meanwhile, 46% reported switching to cheaper grocery brands to manage their weekly expenses.
The survey also found that:
- 35% are eating less meat,
- More than 21% are buying fewer fresh fruits and vegetables, and
- Almost 5% have had to rely on food banks for groceries.
A spokesperson from the Canadian meal-kit company Chefs Plate described the situation as “saddening,” noting that the majority of Canadians feel compelled to change their food habits due to financial pressure.
Food inflation remains a major driver of these changes. In September 2022, food prices jumped 10.3% compared to the previous year — the highest increase since 1981. According to Statistics Canada, grocery store prices rose 11.4%, with notable increases in:
- Bread and baked goods (14.8%),
- Fresh vegetables (11.8%),
- Dairy products (9.7%),
- Meat (7.6%).
While 19% of survey respondents said their food shopping habits remained unchanged, a significant 81% reported making adjustments to cope with soaring costs.
Food banks have been facing unprecedented pressure. Diane Dyson, Interim Vice President for Research and Advocacy at Daily Bread Food Bank, told New Food that food shipments to the charity have surged to 110,000 lbs (50,000 kg) per day to support those facing food insecurity.
“We have seen a rise in the frequency of visits from clients who are struggling with more severe food insecurity and cannot afford a healthy, balanced diet,” Dyson said. She also warned that “food banks cannot meet this growing record demand” and called on governments to set adequate income supports so that people “do not have to rely on charity to meet their needs.”
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