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Food prices in Canada could rise by up to 6% next year, with the cost of meat potentially increasing faster, academic research has suggested.<\/p>\n
Canadian citizens are forecast to see food prices increase 4-6% next year, according to a study by eight of the country\u2019s universities.<\/p>\n
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The most recent CPI data for food prices in Canada show a 3.4% rise in October, down from 4% in September. However, the rate of food inflation still exceeded overall inflation, which stood at 2.2%.<\/p>\n The report, put together by institutions including Dalhousie University, the University of Guelph and Universit\u00e9 Laval, forecast meat prices could rise 5-7% in 2026 amid a \u201csubstantial rise\u201d in the cost of chicken.<\/p>\n Amid rising beef prices, demand for chicken has increased, the researchers said. However, domestic production for both proteins reached \u201crecord lows\u201d.<\/p>\n Deals with Mexico and Australia should help \u201cstabilise\u201d beef prices in Canada, the report added, but \u201cthe squeeze is expected to continue until at least 2027\u201d.<\/p>\n The research suggested some products areas will see inflation at a slower rate than the report\u2019s forecast for the overall food basket.<\/p>\n The study predicts bakery prices will rise by 2-4%, the same projection it gives for dairy and eggs. Fruit prices are forecast to increase 1-3%, with vegetable prices seen 3-5% higher. Seafood prices are forecast to increase 1-2%.<\/p>\n \u201cFood inflation is putting Canadians under a lot of pressure, forcing people to make trade-offs every day. These trade-offs range from switching to a cheaper brand to delaying making purchases altogether,\u201d said Dr. Stacey Taylor, assistant professor for business analytics at Cape Breton University. \u201cNot only is there an issue with food security, but there is also a lot of concern over nutritional security and being able to afford a healthy diet.\u201d<\/p>\n Meanwhile, restaurant inflation is forecast to be 4-6%, the report said.<\/p>\n \u201cDespite steadier inflation, Canadian families are still feeling the squeeze at the grocery store,\u201d Dalhousie University\u2019s Dr. Sylvain Charlebois said. \u201cOur forecast for 2026 makes one thing clear: food affordability will remain a major pressure point in the year ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n \n Sign up for our daily news round-up! Just Food Excellence Awards – Nominations Closed<\/p>\n Nominations are now closed for the Just Food Excellence Awards<\/a>. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered \u2013 your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.
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