As COVID-19 infections continue to plague Canada’s meat processing facilities, numerous plants across the country have been forced to temporarily cease operations. And while our neighbours south of the border have ordered its facilities to remain open, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says that ensuring the health and safety of the plant employees is Canada’s primary concern.
Meat plants aren’t the only aspect of Canada’s supply chain that has been adversely affected by COVID-19; the United Potato Growers of Canada says it’s currently sitting on a surplus of almost 200 million pounds of potatoes, and many farmers are running out of space to freeze it all.
Finally, Restaurants Canada recently spoke out regarding the fees that food delivery apps are charging restaurants for their services, stating that commission fees of up to 30 per cent is not sustainable for the industry. DoorDash and SkipTheDishes have since committed to reducing fees through the month of May, but Uber Eats has said it does not plan to follow suit.
Here are five stories you might have missed in food news this week.
Food delivery fees are compromising restaurant profits
Although offering delivery service is currently helping restaurants to survive, many restaurateurs say the fees charged by food delivery companies are eating away at their bottom line. Restaurants typically operate with razor-thin profit margins, and delivery platforms can take up to 30 per cent commission.
DoorDash and SkipTheDishes have both committed to reducing fees through the end of May, but Uber Eats said in a statement that it’s supporting restaurants in a sustainable manner by waiving delivery fees for customers, thereby generating more orders.
Head to Global News for the full story.
Justin Trudeau addresses meat plant closures
In response to the multiple meat processing plant closures across the country due to COVID-19 infections, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated in a daily public briefing that the government is working to ensure the safety of the plants’ employees. Trudeau also said the government is working very closely with the agricultural industry and provincial governments to ensure that meat plants continue to get food to Canadians.
Find out more at CTV News.
Canadian potato farmers forced to freeze nearly 200 million pounds of potatoes
Usually, around three-quarters of potatoes in Canada are eaten in restaurants. And while many establishments are still offering take-out and delivery, the significantly reduced demand has led to a massive surplus for Canadian farmers. According to the United Potato Growers of Canada, between 1.5 and 200 million pounds of excess raw potatoes have been put into storage, and many farmers are now struggling to find enough freezer space.
Visit CTV News for more.
McDonald’s Canada to begin importing beef from U.S.
McDonald’s Canada announced this week that because of the widespread closures and limited processing capacity of Canadian suppliers, it will begin sourcing its beef from pre-approved suppliers and facilities outside of Canada. The fast food chain added that it will continue to buy as much Canadian beef as possible.
Check out CBC News for more.
Stronger Together, Tous Ensemble raises over $8 million for Food Banks Canada
It’s been less than one week since the Stronger Together, Tous Ensemble special aired, and in that time, Food Banks Canada says that donations have surpassed $8 million. According to the non-profit organization, it’s among the largest amounts ever raised as a result of a charitable television special in Canada, as well as the most raised through a text-to-donate channel in such a short period of time.
Head to CTV News for the full story.
