Food insecurity, Ozempic, the Loblaw boycott and more of the biggest food stories of 2024
From supply chain disruptions to the rise of Ozempic and the Loblaw boycott, 2024 shaped up to be another year of disruption—and growth—for Canada’s food industry.
Dalhousie University’s Agri-Food Analytics Lab released its annual review of the most impactful food stories of the past year.
The Year in Food: Canada’s Top Stories Shaping Agri-Food in 2024 provides a look at the events, debates and innovations that marked the past year.
“The stories that define our food systems this year were more than headlines—they’re a mirror reflecting our society’s values, challenges, and resilience,” said Sylvain Charlebois, senior director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab, in a release. “From rising food insecurity and environmental policies to technological advancements and shifting consumer behaviours, 2024 was a year of both disruption and opportunity.”
Read on for the top 10 stories, with descriptions provided by the lab.
Record food bank visits
Canada’s food insecurity rate reached an unprecedented 22.9%, driven by soaring prices and inflation, emphasizing the need for stronger social safety nets.
Carbon tax debate on food prices
Controversy over carbon pricing’s impact on food costs raised questions about policy effectiveness and food system competitiveness.
Potential tariffs with Donald Trump’s return
The potential for tariffs reignited fears of disruption to Canada’s $40 billion agri-food export market to the U.S.
Railway, grain and port disruptions
Labour disputes strained food supply chains and highlighted the need for proactive policies to safeguard logistics infrastructure.
Record food recalls
High-profile recalls of cucumbers, bakery products, and plant-based beverages raised concerns about food safety in increasingly complex supply chains.
GST holiday debate
Ottawa’s temporary GST holiday on food sparked discussions about its limited impact on affordability and the challenges for retailers.
The rise of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic
The popularity of GLP-1 drugs marked a shift in consumer health trends, with implications for traditional weight-loss programmes and healthcare systems.
Endorsement of the Grocery Code of Conduct
Canada’s "Big Five" grocers adopted the code, aiming to foster fairness and transparency in supplier negotiations.
Capital gains tax changes impacting farmers
A significant tax increase on farm profits raised concerns about generational succession and industry consolidation.
The Loblaw boycott that wasn’t
Despite online momentum, the boycott targeting major Canadian grocers failed to gain traction but spurred debates on "greedflation" and corporate ethics.
The lab's honourable mentions include Health Canada’s pending approval of cloned meat, methane-reducing cattle feed, and Bill C-282 to protect supply management during trade deals.
“This year’s stories highlight the urgent need to address food affordability and security while balancing innovation and tradition in our agri-food systems,” Charlebois added. “The Agri-Food Analytics Lab remains committed to providing evidence-based insights to inform public discourse and policymaking.”
