The past week in Canadian food news produced a mixed bag of food stories, from a concerning increase in Canadian food allergies and the ongoing water crisis in Iqaluit, to encouraging stories such as the proposed legislation in Ontario to allow couriers the right to use washroom facilities at businesses they deliver for and the Newfoundland and Labrador government working to promote healthier beverage choices.
Catch up on these stories and more in this week's ICYMI.
Food allergies increasing in Canada
According to a new report from Dalhousie University’s Agri-Food Analytics Lab, between 2.5 and 3.1 million Canadians have at least one food allergy and more than 7 million have some kind of food intolerance.
The report also specifies that a large portion of the allergies and intolerances were self-diagnosed, however, experts have stated that self-diagnosis is often the only option due to a significant lack of access to allergy specialists throughout Canada.
Head to the National Post for more.
Newfoundland and Labrador to introduce tax on sugar-sweetened beverages
The Newfoundland and Labrador government announced this week that a new tax on sugar-sweetened beverages will officially come into effect on September 1, 2022.
Although the legislation has been met with some opposition, the new provincial tax of 20 cents per litre is expected to encourage healthier beverage choices while generating approximately $9 million annually.
Head to CBC News for the full story.
Iqaluit community come together to combat water crisis
Following the recent announcement that Iqaluit's local water supply was no longer safe to drink due to fuel contamination, the Nunavut government, Iqaluit city officials, and the local community began working in tandem to combat the crisis.
Although the crisis is still ongoing and additional concerns have been raised as a result, thousands of litres of water have been delivered, potable water stations have been installed, and Qajuqturvik Community Food Centre has been delivering water to those who need it most.
Find out more at Global News.
Ontario proposes legislation to give delivery drivers the right to use washrooms
In response to the apparent rise of Ontario businesses denying delivery and truck drivers the use of washroom facilities, the Ontario government is set to propose new legislation that Labour Minister Monte McNaughton says will preserve dignity for the workers who have been here for us throughout the pandemic.
"They stepped up when the demand for deliveries increased, with more people shopping online when we couldn't go into stores, and more families ordering food from their favourite restaurants, when we couldn't go out to eat. You should be treated as heroes for all that you do."
Find the full story at CBC News.
Scout Magazine’s Andrew Morrison passes away
This week, Scout Magazine founder, local advocate, and Vancouver-based food writer Andrew Morrison tragically passed away. Those close to Morrison have stated that the best way to honour his memory is to go to a local and independently-owned restaurant, brewery, bar, or cafe and raise a glass in his honour.
A GoFundMe campaign has also been set up to help his family through this difficult time.
Visit Scout Magazine for more.
