Grocery price inflation has persisted in Canada, prompting many to explore less conventional means of managing their food budget. According to a new report from Dalhousie University’s Agri-Food Analytics Lab, 58% of respondents have become more inclined to consume food that is nearing or has surpassed its best-before date due to the rising costs. Among those surveyed, 38.6% acknowledged frequently eating such food, while 7.5% seldom do so. While some food items like canned and dry goods retain their safety past their best-before date, others, such as seafood, deli meats, and leftovers over five days old, should be avoided due to potential bacterial growth and other hazards that can develop over time. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) clarifies that best-before dates are not indicators of food safety but rather an industry estimate of when the quality of the product may begin to decline. In an effort to extend the lifespan of their food, approximately 47% of Canadians have turned to alternative food storage or preparation techniques, such as freezing bread or storing produce in humidity-controlled drawers. While freezing can be a useful method for preserving food, experts advise exercising caution and not keeping frozen items for excessive periods, as they can still spoil. Keith Warriner, a food scientist at the University of Guelph, emphasizes the importance of relying on one’s own senses to assess the edibility of food beyond its best-before date. If it has an unpleasant odor or appearance, it is advisable to discard it. Additionally, Warriner suggests making well-informed purchases and avoiding spontaneous grocery trips to minimize food waste. By carefully considering their shopping habits, consumers can effectively manage their food budget without compromising their health or safety.
Amid Grocery Price Inflation, Canadians Turn to ‘Risky Foods’ and Alternative Storage Methods
