Sodexo Canada Releases Second Sustainable Food Barometer

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Insights into the Mind of Canadian Consumers

Sodexo Canada has released the results of its Second Sustainable Food Barometer, and the research indicates most Canadians are already on the journey to a healthier, more sustainable diet. Over 8700 people were polled worldwide, including over 1500 Canadians, and the results indicate some very interesting developments.

Over two thirds of Canadians stated that price is the top hurdle to a more sustainable diet. This has been shown to be misinformation, as a plant-based, healthier diet can actually be easier on the wallet. Red meat in particular is increasingly costly – but even still, one fifth of Canadians state they are unwilling to reduce their red meat consumption. A reduction of portions, replacing red meat with rice, beans, or mushrooms, could provide significant savings for Canadians in a time where food prices are growing every day. 

Sustainable and Affordable Tips

A few helpful tips have been identified from the Sustainable Food Barometer to help the everyday Canadian. Using whole-plant ingredients, such as grains, fruits, tubers, beans, legumes, and nuts, are cheaper, and often locally sourced. Conversely, animal meat proteins are the most expensive and have the biggest carbon footprint. Canned and frozen options remain a delicious and nutritious way to eliminate food waste, and by embracing seasoning, Canadians can extend their culinary repertoire to international proportions.

The Sustainable Food Barometer demonstrates that in transitioning to more sustainable diets, we need to focus on adjustments or reductions rather than in-depth transformation. Trying an international recipe in the kitchen once or twice a week for example is one way to add less familiar but delicious and more sustainable ingredients. By taking an intentional approach to sourcing food and preparing meals, we’re helping consumers improve their health, expand their palettes, and reduce their carbon footprintDavide Del Brocco, Sodexo Canada CSR Senior Sustainability Manager  

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Obstacles to Sustainable Eating

Price remains by far the top concern when Canadians go to the grocery store, followed by taste and nutritional value. Half of Canadians associate sustainable food with improved health through a healthier, more balanced diet. More Canadians are willing to make compromises when consuming sustainable dishes and products, and half would be willing to eat a sustainable dish even if it took longer to cook.

While strong, the feeling of urgency and the desire to change still come up against financial consideration and entrenched eating habits. Misconceptions around cost are the top obstacle preventing more consumption of sustainable products – two thirds of Canadians wrongly believe sustainable options cost too much. 

Overall, the insights provided by Sodexo Canada’s Sustainable Food Barometer indicate Canadians are interested in moving towards a healthier, more sustainable future. Using the information provided in the Sustainable Food Barometer, Canadians can make choices for a healthier planet and more sustainable future.