We are calling on Loblaws, Canada's largest food retailer, to bring back its 50% off discount for foods nearing their best before date. This initiative was not only a much-needed step in preventing food waste but it also provided shoppers with access to more affordable food options.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme, a staggering one-third of all food produced globally is lost or wasted. About 13% of all food loss happens in retail settings. If food loss and waste were a country, it would be the third biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions, causing an estimated  8-10% of global GHGs.

At the same time, food costs are higher than ever and 18.4% of people in Canada living in food-insecure household as of 2022, including almost 1.8 million children. (In 2022, Loblaws reported profits of $621 million.) 

As explained by BlogTo, the supermarket chain is no longer "offering items for 50 per cent off when they're close to their best-before date" as of January 2024. "Instead, near-expired foodstuffs will be reduced by only 30 per cent off at the register at stores coast-to-coast." CBC has reported about how this will negatively impact seniors and others who are already vulnerable. 

This change will exacerbate the already very severe issues of food affordability and climate change. We urge Loblaws to reconsider this decision and reinstate the 50% off discount program as part of their commitment towards sustainable practices and social responsibility. Please sign this petition if you believe in affordable groceries and preventing food waste.