By Dori Modney

Canadians more conscious of the food they eat and look for Canadian grown

Mar 10, 2021 | 10:34 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB. –– A survey conducted by Farm Credit Canada (FCC) shows Canadians are looking more for Canadian food and the COVID-19 pandemic is the impetus.

Conducted between January 8 and 12, 2021, the survey found evidence of an emerging shift in what Canadians are doing and thinking about when it comes to buying their groceries.

FCC’s director of industry relations, Marty Seymour, notes the events of the past year underscore the fact that in times of crisis, the Canadian agriculture industry continues to provide safe and reliable food.

“Canadians have noticed and are responding with appreciation for the agriculture and food industry’s ability to adapt, even under difficult circumstances.”

When the survey asked if their purchasing habits changed since the start of the pandemic, six out of 10 people or 58 per cent said they are more likely to buy Canadian made or grown food, 56 per cent are more likely to look for Canadian made or grown food when they buy groceries and 50 per cent are more likely to think about how their food is grown.

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Other findings from the survey, show eight in 10 Canadians believe Canada’s food system and agriculture sector responded well to the pandemic. Most of the respondents (94 per cent) say they are strong supporters of Canada’s agriculture sector and 91 per cent agree Canadian farmers are underappreciated.

According to Seymour, the survey results are an endorsement for the continued support of a strong agriculture and food industry.

“It is encouraging to see such a strong endorsement for the efforts of the women and men across Canada who are committed to this unique and valuable industry. The vast majority of Canadians agree that it’s important we have a strong agriculture and food sector to ensure we can continue to be a source of safe, reliable and affordable food.“