A recent survey conducted by Dalhousie University's Agri-Food Analytics Lab, in collaboration with the online data platform Caddle, reveals significant changes in Canadians' perceptions regarding food affordability and their shopping behaviors due to rising prices. The findings are presented in the latest edition of the Canadian Food Sentiment Index.
The survey indicates that food remains the primary financial concern for the majority of Canadians, with over 80 percent of respondents identifying it as their top expense pressure. Among the nearly 3,000 participants surveyed last month, about half reported a "significant" increase in food costs over the past year. Furthermore, just over one-third of respondents noted that their food expenses had risen "slightly," while nearly 12 percent said their costs remained unchanged.
One notable statistic reveals that approximately 20 percent of Canadians now spend over $600 each month on groceries. This marks a slight increase from the previous biannual food sentiment index published in the spring. Additionally, a combined 46.4 percent of respondents reported spending between $300 and $600 monthly on food.
The impact of food price inflation is evident, with almost half of those surveyed indicating alterations to their grocery shopping habits. Many consumers are actively seeking out sales and discounts to mitigate the financial burden. Meanwhile, around 23 percent of participants have reported using more coupons, shopping online for better prices, or selecting cheaper stores to cut down their grocery bills.
The report also highlights a growing trend of distrust among Canadians towards major food retailers. Many respondents feel increasingly detached from understanding how food prices are determined and express frustration over a lack of transparency from these retailers. In contrast, there is a notable rise in support for foods that are Canadian-grown and Canadian-made, reflecting a shift in consumer behavior towards local products in response to the current economic climate.
This survey paints a compelling picture of the evolving landscape of food affordability in Canada. The emphasis on shopping habits, spending changes, and the demand for transparency reveals the significant impact that rising food prices have had on the Canadian consumer. Additionally, the growing preference for locally sourced products highlights an important shift in attitudes as Canadians navigate the challenges posed by food inflation.
