On Canada’s Ag Day, February 10, 2026, a diverse group of experts and community members gathered for a critical discussion titled “Food, Fear, and Affordability” on the University of Saskatchewan campus. Hosted by Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan and the University of Saskatchewan’s Sustainable Agriculture Innovation and Food, the panel aimed to address the growing anxieties Canadians feel at the grocery store. Canadians are worried about the high cost of food more than any other issue that we are facing. In fact, the average Canadian family is spending nearly one thousand dollars more on groceries this year than they were just twelve months ago.
The event was structured to move the conversation from fear to focus, cutting through the noise of social media influencers and political finger-pointing. It was noted that consumer fear is driven by several factors, including shrinkflation (when product sizes shrink but the price stays the same), climate volatility, and the widening disconnect between urban consumers and family farmers. To address these challenges, the panel brought together experts from the fields of economics, Indigenous agriculture and ecology.
Dr. Sylvain Charlebois, a researcher from Dalhousie University (also known as “The Food Professor”), provided insights into the economic pressures facing Canadians. Dr. Charlebois addressed whether consumers can realistically expect fairer prices with all the uncertainty taking place globally. The discussion also delved into how grocery stores purchase their inventory and the market power they hold from the limited amount of grocery distributors in Canada. One of the key insights presented revolved around how grocery prices have been increasing while consumer wages have not. This results in reducing consumers’ purchasing power.
Terry Lerat, ReconciliAG Advisor for the National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food, shared his perspective as a pioneer in Indigenous-led farming. Lerat, a resident of Cowessess First Nation, discussed his work with 4C Farms and building his farming business. He emphasized the importance of reclaiming the “spirit and intent” of treaties and creating a roadmap for other Indigenous people throughout Canada. A key focus of his contribution was how on the Cowessess First Nation they are creating opportunities for other residents and promoting youth to take interest in farming and ranching.
On the ecological side, Dr. Mitch Weegman, the Ducks Unlimited Canada Endowed Chair, challenged the misconception that conservation and production economics are at odds. Dr. Weegman spoke about sustainable practices, such as effective wetland and wildlife management, and how they are essential to a stable food system, especially as weather patterns change. He explained how understanding water flows and water retention in wetlands can be beneficial for the long-term success of farming and ranching.
The panel concluded with a forward-looking discussion on the future of the food system. While the challenges are significant, the goal was for attendees to leave feeling confident in the innovation and the people working behind the scenes to secure Canada’s food future. The best path forward involves bridging the gap between economics, culture and ecology to ensure the land can keep feeding us for generations to come.
This project was supported by the Agriculture Awareness Initiative Program, a program funded by the Government of Saskatchewan and the Government of Canada through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.