Food affordability – an ongoing conversation

Canada’s Food Price Report for 2023 indicated that the average family of four spends about $1,350/month on their grocery bill – or $313/week.

Amy MacDonald, Public Health Dietitian says that the most concerning thing about this figure emerges when examined within the context of other fixed costs.

Unfortunately when faced with difficult decisions, food budgets can be considered flexible, which often leads families to sacrifice nutrition.

Regarding the broader context, MacDonald highlighted the concerning trend of increasing household food insecurity rates, with 18% of households in southwestern Ontario experiencing food insecurity in 2022. She underscored the impact on families, where incomes fail to keep pace with rising living costs.

The report advocates for income-based solutions to address food insecurity. MacDonald emphasized the importance of policy changes such as inflation-matching disability benefits, old age pensions, and universal basic income (UBI), along with considerations for minimum wage and affordable housing initiatives – she says that at the end of the day, the conversation about the cost of food, doesn’t stop at the end of the grocery checkout.

Furthermore, MacDonald discussed the long-term health implications of food insecurity, including its adverse effects on parental and child health, mental health, and overall healthcare costs – with links to many health problems. She emphasized the role of social determinants of health, particularly income adequacy, in addressing food insecurity effectively.

In advocating for policy change, MacDonald urged residents to educate themselves on recommended policies and resources, and utilize available support services like 211 for immediate assistance with food programs and income supports.