Food For Thought: Why is food so expensive in BC and what can be done about it

As you know, 1 in 5 people in BC are going hungry, and the problem is getting worse. It's hitting hardest where people can least afford it, with the burden falling disproportionately on Indigenous, Black, disabled, and rural communities. Over the past few years, the cost of food has risen by over 22%. But some food costs have risen even more than that. Olive Oil has doubled in price, from $7.93 for a litre in 2020 to $16.85 a litre today. Infant formula, grapes, and beef have all increased higher than inflation.

In our new report, we explore why food is getting more expensive, what the impact is, and what can be done about it. We spoke with key Living Wage Employers responsible for putting food on the table along every step of the food chain, from farmers to food banks and met with nearly 50 low wage workers and heard their concerns and feedback on being able to afford food for themselves and their families. There’s not one thing that is pushing up food prices. It’s being driven by a combination of climate change, supply chain issues, and corporate concentration. Meanwhile, those who work in the food space are some of the lowest paid in BC.

Solutions exist but they require bold, coordinated government action to change inequitable systems. There’s no single thing that will end hunger in BC, but a combination of policies can make food more affordable: investing in local farmers and food systems, supporting independent grocers and bulk-buy programs, raising wages, and ensuring equitable access to food across communities.