Beef prices in Canada have skyrocketed by 25% over the past year, outpacing inflation and sending shockwaves through the country’s summer barbecue season. Despite record-high costs, Canadians remain committed to their beloved burgers and steaks.
The average cost of ground beef has reached $14.67 per kilogram, with prices for prime cuts also increasing significantly. Experts point to droughts in Western Canada and high input costs as major contributors to the price spike.
However, some cattle producers are bucking the trend, seeing a surge in demand for their products thanks to barbecue culture’s growing popularity and support for local farmers. Ranchers like Lee Irvine are benefiting from higher prices, but many others face significant challenges due to prolonged droughts.
Butchers also report struggling with the high cost of purchasing beef, passing those costs on to consumers. Despite this, Canadians remain enthusiastic about summer barbecues, with demand for beef showing no signs of slowing down.
Industry experts warn that beef prices are likely to stay elevated through at least 2027, as herd rebuilding takes time. Consumers may need to prepare for a prolonged period of higher prices, but for now, summer barbecues come at a premium – one Canadians appear willing to pay.
Source: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/canada-price-of-beef-1.7596584