ICYMI: Canadian liquor stores pull Russian products, hospitality industry rallies to support Ukraine, and more

Here are five food stories you might have missed this week

Image via Wedel Touch of Europe's Instagram page

After the Canadian hospitality industry’s remarkable efforts throughout the pandemic, it should come as no surprise that several Canadian food and beverage businesses were among the first to rally in support of Ukraine. 

In other news, an Ontario-based snack company has seen demand skyrocket in response to the Loblaws-Frito-Lay price dispute, while in Vancouver, Filipino food-enthusiasts celebrated the city’s first Jollibee location. 

Catch up on these stories and more in this week’s ICYMI.

Canadian liquor stores pull Russian products

In response to Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, liquor stores across Canada have begun voluntarily pulling Russian products from their shelves. So far, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Ontario, Quebec, and Manitoba have all removed Russian products, with more expected to join in solidarity in the near future. 

Head to Global News for more.

Sales soar for Canadian snack company during Loblaws-Frito-Lay dispute

Following last week’s news that Frito-Lay had halted all shipments to Loblaws over their refusal to raise prices, Canadian snack company Neal Brothers have reported that its sales have since skyrocketed. 

While Peter Neal has said that he is pleased with the newfound popularity, it has also placed a tremendous amount of pressure on the company to fulfill orders.

Find out more at CBC News

Ottawa food community rallies to support Ukraine

Although there have been numerous instances of Canadian businesses and individuals lending much-needed support to Ukraine over the past week, a collection of Ottawa restaurants made the news after making a collective decision to donate proceeds to support the people of Ukraine. 

Visit CTV News for a full list of participating locations.

Jollibee makes triumphant debut in Vancouver

The latest location in Filipino fast-food chain Jollibee’s continued Canadian expansion launched this week in Vancouver, and much like during previous major city debuts, Vancouverites were lined up for hours—some overnight—to try their first taste of the Filipino chain’s popular offerings. 

Find the full story at CBC News.

Canadian lobster industry reports record-breaking year

According to recent reports from the Lobster Council of Canada, 2021 was the biggest year for lobster exports in Canadian history, surpassing the $3.2 billion sales reported in 2020. Despite a massive increase in demand for both frozen and fresh lobster, East Coast fisheries are confident that Canada’s lobster population is as healthy as ever. 

Head to CBC News for a full breakdown.