Climate Change’s Impact on Food Prices

Climate change is transforming global ecosystems, and Canada is no exception. Among the most significant consequences is its impact on food prices. According to Canada’s Food Price Report 2025, food prices in Canada are expected to increase by 3–5% in 2025. Some may think politicians, policies, taxes, grocers, speculation and inflation are responsible for food rising prices, and that may be part of the problem sometimes, but reality is extreme weather events, shifting growing seasons, and disruptions in global trade caused by climate change are driving up food costs for Canadians. Below are five examples illustrating how climate change influences food prices in Canada:

1. DROUGHTS INCREASING GRAIN PRICES

Canada is one of the world’s largest producers of wheat, barley, and other grains. However, recent droughts in the Prairie provinces have reduced crop yields significantly. For example, in 2021, a historic drought in Western Canada slashed wheat production by nearly 40%. The decreased supply led to higher prices for bread, cereals, and other grain-based products in grocery stores. It also created a global shortage and price hike of mustard as Canada is the number 1 producer of mustard seed.

2. FLOODS DISRUPTING LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION

Extreme weather events, such as floods, are increasingly common due to climate change. In British Columbia, the 2021 floods devastated agricultural regions, leading to the destruction of feed supplies and livestock deaths. The shortage of feed and higher transportation costs for surviving livestock drove up the prices of beef, poultry, and dairy products.

3. RISING COSTS FOR IMPORTED PRODUCE

Canada imports a significant portion of its fruits and vegetables, particularly during the winter months. Climate change-induced disruptions in global agricultural hubs, such as California’s ongoing water scarcity and heatwaves, have increased the cost of produce. Oranges production in US, mainly Florida and California, fell more than 40% due to diseases and extreme weather events, consequences of climate change. Canadians are paying more for staples like lettuce, tomatoes, oranges and berries as transportation costs and import prices rise.

4. SHORTENED GROWING SEASONS FOR LOCAL FRUITS

Climate change has altered growing seasons for fruits like apples and cherries in provinces such as Ontario and British Columbia. Erratic weather, including unseasonal frosts and heatwaves, has reduced yields and driven up prices. Additionally, smaller harvests make Canada more reliant on imports, further increasing food costs

5. FISHERIES DECLINE RAISING SEAFOOD PRICES

Canada’s fisheries are experiencing declines due to warming oceans and changing ecosystems. For example, lobster populations in the Atlantic are shifting northward, while salmon runs on the West Coast are declining. These changes have led to higher prices for seafood, a staple for many Canadians.

In summary: The relationship between climate change and food prices is clear and pressing. Addressing these challenges will require concerted efforts to adapt agricultural practices, invest in sustainable food systems, and mitigate climate change’s effects. Without action, Canadians will continue to feel the economic strain of rising food prices linked to a changing climate.

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Submitted by Gerard Dusastre