To reaffirm their food sovereignty, communities rely on the presence of essential food services such as grocery stores. In Quebec and Nunavik, most communities have a grocery store on their territory. However, they do not always benefit from competitive prices like those in the south. Indeed, in 2021, a grocery cart in a northern community could cost between 50% and 100% more1.
Factors that influence food prices
The remoteness of certain communities increases transportation costs and, consequently, the cost of foodstuffs. The time it can take to deliver products also generates significant losses in fresh produce. Moreover, the fact that communities tend to be small is not conducive to competition. This has a direct impact on the overall cost of a grocery cart. Furthermore, since fresh produce often has to travel many kilometers before reaching grocery shelves, it can be less enticing than some processed products. Eating more processed products to the detriment of eating more fresh produce can have negative health consequences and increase the risk of chronic diseases.
Possible solutions
To overcome supply chain difficulties, some communities are taking steps to regain some control over their food systems. This is the case in Lac-Simon, where the Wabak cooperative operates a grocery store under the Bonichoix banner. With a focus other than profit at all costs, the cooperative is able to offer good prices to its members while also employing community members.
In Nunavik, the Fédération des coopératives du Nouveau Québec (FNCQ) partially oversees the purchasing and distribution of food in each of the 14 cooperatives located in the Nunavik territory. Founded in 1967, the FCNQ supports the development of each of the 14 communities by offering various services, including the distribution of food, fuel, and everyday items
1Bratina, B. (June 2021), Food Security in Northern and Isolated Communities: Ensuring Equitable Access to Adequate and Healthy Food For All, Report of the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs. p.13
