KFL&A Public Health monitors local food affordability and found that in 2023, the cost to eat healthy for a family of four (two adults, two children) in the KFL&A region was approximately $1,207 per month.
“Our findings consistently highlight the challenges faced by low-income households, to balance the costs of rent, healthy food, and managing other essential living expenses,” said Rachael Mather, public health dietitian at KFL&A Public Health. “Being unable to afford healthy food can have serious negative impacts on physical and mental health for adults, children and youth.”
Approximately 16 per cent of households in the KFL&A region live with food insecurity, meaning they cannot afford to buy the food they want and need for good health. Everyone deserves the right to adequate, healthy, safe, affordable, and culturally appropriate food. Income-based strategies are required to address poverty, which is the root cause of food insecurity.
For those wanting to help, KFLA Public Health encouraged people to share the Cost of Eating Healthy report with peers, colleagues, and partner agencies. Consider opportunities to support income-based strategies that address food insecurity.
KFL&A Public Health conducted in-store and online costing of 61 foods from the National Nutritious Food Basket. The National Nutritious Food Basket reflects a healthy eating pattern from Canada’s Food Guide.
For more information, visit kflaph.ca/CostofEatingHealthy.