Rising food prices are forcing Canadians to make tough choices between affordability and nutrition in their grocery shopping selections, according to a new poll.
A large majority of Canadian consumers (86.4 percent) considered themselves more price-conscious overall compared to a year ago.
Of those surveyed, 63.3 percent worried that compromising on nutrition in their food purchases may have adverse, long-term effects on their health, with 49.2 percent decreasing their intake of meat protein and 46 percent reducing their consumption of fruits and vegetables.
“I believe that this survey sheds important light on the evolving challenges that Canadians face when it comes to their grocery shopping habits and their concerns about nutrition in the face of rising food prices,” said Dr. Sylvain Charlebois, director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab in a release.
Dr. Charlebois said it’s evident that “these challenges are not just economic but also deeply tied to the daily lives and well-being of Canadians.”
Grocery prices rose 6.8 percent year-over-year in August, a decrease compared to the year’s high of 8.5 percent in July. The overall inflation rate in July and August was 3.3 and 4 percent, respectively.
Millennials (those born between 1981 and 1996) were among the most likely to place economy over nutrition, at 53 percent. In that regard, the so-called Greatest Generation (1900-1945) polled at almost 55 percent and Baby Boomers (1946-1964) were the least likely to prioritize cost, at 34.6 percent.
“In an era marked by shifting economic landscapes and global uncertainties, understanding how individuals and communities adapt and cope with these changes becomes paramount,” said Janet Music, research manager of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab, in the release.
Across the country, Alberta and New Brunswick were the only two provinces where a majority of respondents placed cost above nutrition at the grocery store.
The survey also found many Canadians have altered their shopping patterns, increasing their frequency of store visits compared to 2022 in order to economize, with 59.3 percent saying they were now more inclined to shop at discount stores.
A substantial number of Canadians (79 percent) said they have significantly reduced food waste in the past year, demonstrating a willingness to consume leftovers and repurpose ingredients.
“The data we’ve gathered reflects the resilience and adaptability of Canadians as they navigate the complexities of the higher food price landscape,” said Ms. Music.
