The Canadian Centre for Food Integrity (CCFI) released the results of its 2023 Public Trust Research at its annual Public Trust Summit in Toronto, providing more insight into the latest trends and challenges in Canada’s agri-food system. Based on a large representative national survey, the results indicate that Canadians are growing increasingly concerned about food costs and affordability of healthy food. 

The 2023 research has revealed that 47 per cent of Canadians rate their concern about the affordability of healthy food as a 9-10 out of 10, which is a significant increase of eight points higher than 2022 and a staggering 19 points higher than in 2020, with 28 per cent being “very concerned”.  

“Year after year, we continue to be impressed by the scope and magnitude of our Public Trust Research and the value it provides our agri-food system,” noted Mike Dungate, chair of the CCFI Board of Directors. “We urge the Canadian food system to take a collaborative and proactive approach to addressing consumer concerns and encouraging informed food choices that Canadians can feel good about.” 

The CCFI research results also indicate that despite the dominance of cost concerns, Canadians remain confident in the agri-food industry’s ability to innovate, grow, and operate freely. Two key indicators have remained unchanged year over year: public trust across most food and agriculture stakeholders, and the proportion of Canadians who feel the food system is headed in right direction. Despite this stability, the food system must continue to communicate proactively and transparently about the central consumer issue of food costs and affordability.  

As the world transitions from a pandemic to an endemic state, Canadians are increasingly focusing on concerns close to home and recognizing the importance of health and food. 54 per cent of Canadians reported actively seeking information about nutrition and healthy eating. However, when it comes to gaining public trust in the agri-food system, it is essential to understand individual interests, beliefs, and concerns to effectively engage with Canadians. 

 Source:  Canadian Centre for Food Integrity October 17, 2023 news release