Brits give up fresh food for the recession Saturday, November 3, 2012 Since the financial crisis in 2008, the accompanying recession and a boost in commodity prices, Britons have changed their eating habits, according to The Economist magazine. Retail food prices have increased 25 per cent since 2008 and the poor now spend 16 per cent of their income on food, reversing a steady downward trend since 1938. Organic food sales have dropped 21 per cent since 2008.Surprisingly, it is sales of fresh foods and meats that have taken the biggest beating. Fruit and vegetable sales declined, as did sales of primary proteins; meat and fish, that require other ingredients to turn them into meals. Food waste is down by more than 10 per cent.Prepared foods are the winners, as are things like pizzas that can be heated quickly. It seems the Brits would rather watch cooking shows than cook for themselves. It's likely that the long tail on this recession might be higher future health care costs. BF McDonald's goes native in India Behind the Lines - November 2012
Broadband Access is a Defining Issue for Rural Canada’s Future Thursday, April 2, 2026 Broadband connectivity took centre stage during the on March 26, as speakers emphasized that reliable, high-speed internet is now foundational to rural economic growth, community well-being, and Canada’s broader ambitions in technology and resource development. The Coalition’s latest... Read this article online
Agricultural Educator and Industry Leader Dr Tom Funk Remembered for Lasting Influence Thursday, April 2, 2026 The agricultural education community is mourning the passing of Dr Tom Funk, a highly respected Professor Emeritus at the University of Guelph whose influence spanned more than three decades of teaching, leadership, and mentorship. Dr Funk dedicated over 35 years to teaching... Read this article online
What Distributed Energy Resources Mean for Canadian Producers Thursday, April 2, 2026 As energy costs rise, many Canadian farms are looking for ways to take greater control of their electricity use. One term that farmers are hearing more often is distributed energy resources, often shortened to DERs. While the phrase may sound technical, the concept is highly practical, and... Read this article online
Western Fair District Wins Agribusiness Award 2026 Thursday, April 2, 2026 Western Fair District has been named the winner of the 2026 Business Achievement Award in Agribusiness by the London Chamber of Commerce. This award recognizes the organization’s strong efforts in supporting agriculture, innovation, and community development. A key part of this... Read this article online
Government Extends Interest Free Farm Loan Support Thursday, April 2, 2026 The Government of Canada has announced that it will extend the $250,000 interest-free limit under the Advance Payments Program (APP) for the 2026 program year. The decision has been welcomed by farm groups as an important step to support farmers during uncertain times. “This is a... Read this article online