Loblaw reinstates country-of-origin labels on produce after consumer outcry

Loblaw quietly eliminated country-of-origin details from most of its produce signage earlier this month, except in Ontario and Quebec where provincial rules still require the information. The omission sparked a backlash from shoppers nationwide, with many posting criticism online and contacting the company directly. Consumers such as Karla Hennig from Penticton expressed frustration, saying the move ignored their preference for Canadian products.

Analysts like Ellen Goddard of the University of Alberta linked the timing to a recent collapse in Canada-U.S. trade talks, suggesting the policy change was ill-timed. After one outlet reached out, Loblaw replied that the current trade uncertainty with the United States prompted it to re-introduce origin labels and to mark American items affected by tariffs with a “T” symbol. The company indicated the adjustments aim to help shoppers identify Canadian produce amid the renewed trade dispute.