Canadians reveal top winter comfort foods: survey

When asked about their emotional association with food, cheese and the holiday season, a new survey found that 90% of Canadians think of soups or stews as winter comfort foods.

A new survey, “The Canadian Comfort List”, conducted by Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium, asked 1,509 Canadians about their comforts, rituals and indulgences when it comes to food.

Of those surveyed, 76% of Canadians  think of baked goods, desserts or hot chocolate as winter comfort food.

Seventy-three percent of Canadians agreed with the statement “my ideal winter evening includes family meals or comfort food with others.”

The survey asked its respondents about their holiday cheese consumption. Seventy-three percent of Canadians said that cheese, especially in poutine, is a quintessential Canadian comfort food.

READ: Cheese trends shaping the category

The survey also notes that 73% of those surveyed said they agreed with the statement “my ideal winter evening includes family meals or comfort food with others.”

Out of the respondents, women are twice as likely as men (19% versus 10%) to say they love cheese, but it causes them discomfort.

Nearly three-in-10 Canadians have someone in their household who avoids cheese due to lactose intolerance or sensitivity. These rates are higher among gen-Z, millennials and gen X, compared to boomers.

“The Canadian Comfort List” asked respondents about lactose-free options. Thirty-six percent of men and 39% of women said naturally lactose-free, aged cheeses alternatives they would like to learn more about.