LETTER: The need to label 'Canadian' products accurately
By Letters to the editor
Dear Editor
I have been so proud to see how many of my fellow Canadians have responded to the threats of Trump’s tariffs by committing to support Canadian industry, farmers and retail outlets. It has been a real awakening of pride in our identity, and an adventure to seek out authentic Canadian goods and services, instead of merely relying on a Canadian branch of an American multinational, or US imports. Time consuming to check every label, but gratifying to know you are supporting Canadian workers and businesses who are facing economic torture from the Trump administration.
However I was deeply disappointed with some large grocery stores for putting Canadian flag indicators beside the price of items, which upon inspection, the packaging clearly indicates that they are a product of the USA. I understand not wanting to get stuck with items on the shelf that we do not want at this time, but your credibility is undermined if you are trying to manipulate our patriotism for your profit.
When I saw a Canadian flag sticker under Heinz ketchup and saw it was made in the US, I was infuriated. Heinz deserted us to consolidate in the US under Free Trade, but brought back production of their ketchup after the public boycotted them in response. However, it appears that they ship from both countries to our shelves so don’t make any assumptions. Read the labels. More and more examples are popping up and it means these particular grocery store decision makers aren’t doing their part to help us make conscientious decisions while our economy is under attack.
Hopefully if the dust settles down we can demand more transparent labelling but in the meantime, a “Product of Canada” is one where 98% of the materials and labour are produced in this country. This is the premium choice. “Made in Canada” merely means that 51% of material/labour takes place here, not as strong but still an option. “Prepared for” is a nebulous label that really doesn’t tell us what proportion if any is Canadian and “imported for” means it comes as a finished product from somewhere outside our borders.
Thank you to those retailers who are really trying to offer us Canadian selections . We will remember that you stood with us while we adjust our preferences. Shame on those of you who are trying to trick us with visuals that make us believe we are supporting our country with that purchase. If this is an error – time to fix it. If not, then how can we support you going forward if you aren’t supporting us?
Sincerely
Cindy McCallum Miller
Castlegar, B.C.
