Food, by the numbers

With farmer’s markets across the country starting to brim with produce, it’s hard to believe that there are food shortages in many parts of the world—and that many people are struggling with the rising cost of food.

Well, it turns out these really are times aplenty for food in Canada. According to a Statistic’s Canada report released today, titled "Food prices: A boon for producers, a buffer for consumers," our agricultural exports in 2007 hit a record high at $34.6 billion. And, compared to to the European Union and the U.S., where food prices have risen 7.1 % and 5.9 % respectively in the past 12 months, the price of food in Canada is virtually unchanged (it has risen just 1.2%). We’re paying more for bread and cereal products but less for most other foods.

The report also provides a snapshot of where our food comes from.

• More than 70 % is produced here, including most meat and diary, bread and cereal

• More than 40 % of the fish, fruits and vegetables we consume are imported

• Most other food imports are, not surprisingly, things like coffee, tea, sugar and oils.