By the Numbers - Food consumption in Canada

Toronto – July 28, 2013 – Canadian households spend on average about $7,700 a year on food expenditures. A number of factors influence the food we buy, where we eat it, and how it is prepared. In a recent survey, more than half of those surveyed reported they usually spent 15 minutes or less preparing dinner for themselves and their families because they were under time pressure. Why? A hectic work and commuting schedule, according to 68% of the respondents. It is no wonder then that ready-to-go meals and entrees are one of the hottest categories in grocery retail, competing directly for the fast-food dollar. "Snack food/beverages" have also become a meal replacement plan for many because of time pressure, as well as the rising cost of fresh, whole foods.

25%     The portion of daily time awake that people devote to food-related activities including eating at home or at restaurant meals, cooking/ washing up (but not food shopping)         

90        The average number of minutes a day spent eating restaurant food by 15 to 24-year-olds

105      The average number of minutes a day spent eating restaurant food by 65 to 74-year-olds

14%     Percentage of  dinner-time meals comprised of pizza

25%     Percentage of parents reporting they were too rushed to prepare breakfast for their children

55%     Percentage of 15-year-olds who skip breakfast altogether

28%     Respondents who say they rarely if ever take time to eat on their lunch break

40%     Percentage of workers who do eat lunch who eat at their desk/workstation

25%     Percentage of all meals consumed in Canada consisting of snack food/beverages

Sources: Statistics Canada, the NPD Group, IPSOS Canada, the Canadian Index of Wellbeing.