Despite growing hunger in the world, Quebecers are doing better than anywhere else in Canada, according to a recent study by the University of Toronto.
“Food insecurity” still affects nearly one million Quebecers, or 13.1% of its population. In comparison, 20% of Albertans struggle to feed themselves, despite an average per capita income higher than all other provinces.
“This is the first time that such a persistent and wide difference has been documented between the provinces”, points out to the To have to the study’s lead researcher, Valerie Tarasuk. “But the problem is not solved there. »
The providence of the Quebec state and “collective social values” explain this gap, notes the professor at the University of Toronto. “For example, Quebec supports families more than anywhere else in the country. And it is a payment that is indexed to inflation. It’s very important in a time like this. »
Voters should think twice before praising tax-cutting policies, she argues. “It must be recognized that these taxes pay for these programs. And we see the positive effects. Alberta prides itself on not paying taxes [provinciales]but she is hungry! […] People in Alberta should take a trip to Quebec to see how it’s done back home. »
Lack of income is the main factor that leads to malnutrition. However, half of those who struggle to fill their plate have a job. “That’s what happens when you work for minimum wage and you have to support a family,” points out the nutrition expert.
world hunger
Not all those who live with “food insecurity” are on the verge of starvation, puts the study carried out in 2021 into perspective.
Some experience “marginal insecurity,” meaning that some “worry” hangs over the grocery budget.
From “moderate insecurity”, the food becomes of very poor quality, and some meals have to be skipped.
In the “severely insecure” stage, there is a lack of food for a few days. The consequences for health then become serious.
Malnutrition and undernourishment prevent “good management of chronic diseases”, hospitalization and “premature death”, detail the experts in this study.
These data date from 2021 and the record inflation of the last few weeks is making the situation worse. Those who were already frail are experiencing deeper hunger with higher grocery prices, says Valerie Tarasuk. “Those who are already struggling will struggle more. »
Approximately 54,000 households were consulted over a year by Statistics Canada teams as part of this study, which was not peer-reviewed.