Canadians are increasingly adopting sustainable food habits, as revealed by Sodexo Canada’s latest survey. This move towards environmentally friendly eating is not just a trend but a reflection of a deeper understanding of sustainable practices.
The survey, conducted by Leger and involving over 1,500 Canadians, offers a window into this significant change in dietary preferences.
Most Canadians recognize the urgency of sustainable eating, with 87% believing it’s an immediate concern. This sentiment is consistent across various demographics, showing a universal acknowledgment of the issue.
Notably, young adults are at the forefront of this change, with a remarkable 98% in the 18-24 age group expressing awareness.
Canadians are actively engaging in sustainable practices like reducing food waste, eating seasonal produce, and purchasing local products. However, the survey also highlights a gap between intentions and actions. Financial considerations and established eating habits present substantial barriers, yet the willingness to make changes, such as reducing animal protein and dairy intake, is evident.
Survey results show the following:
- 8 percent of Canadians believe adopting more sustainable behaviors is an urgent matter (compared to 79 per cent globally).
- The main motivation for eating more sustainably is the expected health benefits (52 per cent), and then expected financial savings (49 per cent).
- Nonetheless, when shopping for groceries, price is still the most important factor for Canadians, followed by taste and nutritional value. The least important factor was the product’s environmental impact. The survey says that the changes Canadians are prepared to make are more about reduction or adjustments than in-depth transformations or major diet upheavals.
- The majority of Canadians say they don’t have the desire, intention or don’t know if they would give up meat, fish or dairy (substantially higher than the global average).
Sodexo Canada, aware of its influential role, is committed to aiding this transition. The company focuses on sustainable sourcing, offering plant-based alternatives, optimizing energy use, and reducing food waste. Their strategies align with the consumers' evolving preferences, emphasizing health benefits and financial savings as key motivations.
Sodexo Canada’s initiatives reflect an understanding of the challenges and opportunities in promoting sustainable food choices, aiming to lead by example in the food service industry. As Canadians continue to embrace sustainable eating habits, they are setting a precedent for a healthier, more sustainable future.