Food prices in Canada are expected to continue rising in 2026, costing the average family an additional $994 throughout next year.
The latest “Food Price Report” produced by several Canadian universities is projecting an average family of four will pay an estimated $994.63 more for food in 2026.
Food prices at leading Canadian grocery retailers such as Loblaw Companies (L) and Metro (MRU) are expected to rise due to ongoing issues such as tariffs and climate change.
In all, Canadian families are expected to spend $17,571.79 on groceries over the coming year, a 6% increase from 2025.
That’s higher than the 4% increase in grocery prices seen over the past 12 months, according to the Food Price Report.
However, some relief for Canadians might come after U.S. President Donald Trump recently rolled back tariffs on more than 200 agricultural and food products.
Meat continues to be the main driver of food inflation in Canada, having risen 7.2% this year, and projected to rise another 5% to 7% next year.
Beef prices are rising as cattle herds decline to their lowest level since 1988 while drought conditions have pushed up feed costs and processing costs are also on the rise.
The stock of Loblaw Companies has gained 28% in 2025 to trade at $60.84 in Toronto.
