Truro (Rural Roots Canada) – Canadians continue to struggle with rising food costs, according to a report from the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University.
The bi-annual Canadian Food Sentiment Index offers a snapshot of Canadians’ views on food-related issues such as affordability, food security, and consumer trust, especially in the wake of rising food prices.
One of the report’s most prominent findings is the impact food prices are having on Canadian households. More than 84% of respondents identified food as one of the key expenses that has surged over the last 12 months. This has resulted in many Canadians altering their food shopping habits to manage the increased financial burden. Some changes include a growing reliance on coupons and shopping at cheaper stores.
Food security continues to be an issue for Canadians, particularly among younger generations. The report finds that Gen Z faces the most significant challenges when it comes to the food insecurity rate.
RELATED: Canada’s Food Price Report Predicts a Slow Return to Stability
Despite varying levels of consumer trust, Canadian farmers continue to see high levels of public confidence, but the same can’t be said for the major grocery chains. They rank the lowest in consumer trust, reflecting the ongoing skepticism toward corporate food entities.
The report also finds a discrepancy between what Canadians believe and what official numbers indicate about food inflation. Although the Consumer Price Index (CPI) places food inflation at 2.4% in stores and 3.4% in restaurants, more than half of Canadians believe food price inflation is higher than the government estimates.
Despite the concerns, many remain cautiously optimistic, with most anticipating a slower rise in food prices over the coming year.
You can access the complete report at this link.
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Canadians Divided Around Perception of Canada’s Food System: CCFI | Rural Roots Canada
October 26, 2024 - 2:50 am[…] RELATED: New Report Highlights Canadians’ Struggles with Rising Food Costs, Shift in Consumer Behaviour […]
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