Health self-awareness dominates New Year’s Food Resolution Survey

Halifax — Canadians plan to change their eating and food shopping habits by making healthier food decisions, reducing food waste and eating out less, according to a survey by the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University, in partnership with Caddle.

Dining out less in 2024

Diners have noticed higher menu prices, and many Canadians intend to eat out less often in 2024, the Lab reported. While six per cent of Canadians intend to dine out more often in 2024, a total of 38 per cent are planning to eat out less often. A total of 12 per cent of Canadians intend not to eat out at all in 2024.

For people who intend to go out, 39 per cent intend to choose more budget-friendly restaurants. While 24 per cent of Canadians will not order side dishes or alcohol, which can add to a bill, nearly 14 per cent of Canadians intend to share meals to reduce costs.

Eating healthier

Eating healthier and making better food decisions is the number one choice for 2024, at 15 per cent, followed by cooking more at home (14 per cent).

Drinking more water and staying hydrated is the third most popular choice, follow by exercising more to complement a balanced diet.

“From increasing reliance on promotions and loyalty programs to a heightened focus on food waste reduction, Canadians are adapting in diverse ways to manage their food expenses,” said  Sylvain
Charlebois, director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab. “This change is more than just economic; it’s a cultural shift in how we approach our food choices and consumption patterns.”

Read the survey results here.