In 2025, the escalating cost of groceries remains a pressing issue for Canada households, with many feeling the pinch on their budgets.
A June 2025 PwC report highlights that 76% of Canadians are concerned about rising food prices, far surpassing the global average of 59%.
This widespread worry is fueled by persistent price fluctuations, a recent U.S.-Canada trade war, and food inflation outpacing the overall inflation rate.
According to Loblaw’s July 2025 food inflation report, grocery prices in June rose by 2.8% year-over-year, down slightly from May’s 3.3% but still above the national inflation rate of 1.9%.
Using Statistics Canada’s Average Retail Food Prices Data Visualization Tool, we’ve analyzed how the prices of everyday grocery items have shifted from January to June 2025.
While most staples saw price increases, some unexpectedly dropped.
This comprehensive guide breaks down these trends, offering insights into how Canadian shoppers can navigate the grocery aisle amid economic uncertainty.
From shrimp to canned soup, here’s a detailed look at how grocery prices have changed and what it means for your wallet.
Table of Contents
Why Grocery Prices Are Rising in Canada
Several factors contribute to the rising cost of groceries in Canada in 2025. Inflation, though moderating, continues to drive up prices for many essentials.
The Loblaw report notes that food inflation, while slightly lower than earlier in the year, remains a significant burden.
Additionally, the ongoing U.S.-Canada trade war introduces uncertainty, potentially increasing costs for imported goods like oranges and shrimp.
Supply chain disruptions, climate-related challenges affecting crop yields, and rising production costs also play a role.
However, not all news is grim. Some grocery items have seen price drops, offering a glimmer of relief for budget-conscious shoppers.
By understanding these trends, Canadians can make informed choices to stretch their dollars further.
Below, we dive into the specifics of price changes for 20 common grocery items, based on Statistics Canada’s data, and provide tips for saving money at the supermarket.
Grocery Price Trends: January to June 2025
Using data from Statistics Canada, tracked the price changes of key grocery items over the first half of 2025.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how prices have shifted, with insights into what’s driving these changes and how shoppers can adapt.
1. Shrimp (300 g)
- January 2025: $7.39
- June 2025: $7.68
- Change: +3.9%
- Insight: Shrimp prices rose modestly, likely due to import costs tied to the U.S.-Canada trade war and global seafood supply challenges. Shoppers can save by opting for frozen shrimp or buying in bulk during sales.
2. Tomatoes (1 kg)
- January 2025: $6.64
- June 2025: $4.48
- Change: -32.5%
- Insight: Tomatoes saw a significant price drop, possibly due to improved domestic supply or seasonal abundance. Consider stocking up on fresh tomatoes for sauces or salads to take advantage of this trend.
3. Oranges (1.36 kg)
- January 2025: $5.27
- June 2025: $5.92
- Change: +12.3%
- Insight: Citrus prices climbed, likely due to import tariffs and transportation costs. Look for locally grown fruits or frozen orange juice as cost-effective alternatives.
4. Ketchup (1 L)
- January 2025: $4.82
- June 2025: $4.65
- Change: -3.5%
- Insight: Ketchup prices dipped slightly, offering minor relief. Stock up during promotions, as ketchup has a long shelf life.
5. Orange Juice (2 L)
- January 2025: $5.62
- June 2025: $5.95
- Change: +5.9%
- Insight: Orange juice prices rose, reflecting the same import challenges as fresh oranges. Consider diluting with water or switching to in-season fruit juices.
6. Yogurt (500 g)
- January 2025: $3.50
- June 2025: $3.67
- Change: +4.9%
- Insight: Yogurt prices increased modestly, driven by dairy production costs. Buying larger containers or store brands can help manage costs.
7. Cream (1 L)
- January 2025: $4.61
- June 2025: $4.73
- Change: +2.6%
- Insight: Cream saw a small price hike, consistent with dairy trends. Use sparingly or explore plant-based alternatives like almond or oat cream.
8. Margarine (907 g)
- January 2025: $7.37
- June 2025: $7.26
- Change: -1.5%
- Insight: Margarine prices dropped slightly, possibly due to competitive pricing. Stock up during sales, as it stores well.
9. Peanut Butter (1 kg)
- January 2025: $5.95
- June 2025: $6.12
- Change: +2.9%
- Insight: Peanut butter prices rose marginally. Opt for store brands or bulk purchases to save.
10. Mayonnaise (890 ml)
- January 2025: $6.42
- June 2025: $6.26
- Change: -2.5%
- Insight: Mayonnaise prices fell slightly, offering a small break. Buy in larger quantities for better value.
11. Salad Dressing (475 ml)
- January 2025: $3.33
- June 2025: $3.25
- Change: -2.4%
- Insight: Salad dressing prices dipped, making it a good time to experiment with new flavors. Homemade dressings can also save money.
12. Tea (20 bags)
- January 2025: $4.38
- June 2025: $4.42
- Change: +0.9%
- Insight: Tea prices remained nearly stable, with a minimal increase. Buy in bulk or choose generic brands for savings.
13. Sugar (2 kg)
- January 2025: $3.31
- June 2025: $2.90
- Change: -12.4%
- Insight: Sugar prices dropped significantly, likely due to stable supply chains. Stock up for baking needs.
14. Pasta Sauce (650 ml)
- January 2025: $3.24
- June 2025: $3.32
- Change: +2.5%
- Insight: Pasta sauce saw a small price increase. Making your own sauce with discounted tomatoes can be a budget-friendly option.
15. Dry or Fresh Pasta (500 g)
- January 2025: $3.04
- June 2025: $3.24
- Change: +6.6%
- Insight: Pasta prices rose moderately. Look for sales or bulk buys to keep costs down.
16. Cereal (400 g)
- January 2025: $4.13
- June 2025: $4.18
- Change: +1.2%
- Insight: Cereal prices remained nearly flat. Consider oats or homemade granola for a cheaper breakfast option.
17. Canned Baked Beans (398 ml)
- January 2025: $1.84
- June 2025: $1.96
- Change: +6.5%
- Insight: Baked beans saw a moderate price hike. Stock up during discounts, as canned goods last long.
18. Canned Beans and Lentils (540 ml)
- January 2025: $1.64
- June 2025: $1.64
- Change: 0%
- Insight: Prices for canned beans and lentils held steady, offering stability for budget meals.
19. Canned Soup (284 ml)
- January 2025: $1.21
- June 2025: $1.52
- Change: +25.6%
- Insight: Canned soup saw a sharp price increase, likely due to rising production costs. Consider making homemade soups to save.
What These Price Changes Mean for Canada Shoppers?
The data reveals a mixed bag: while some items like tomatoes and sugar became cheaper, others like canned soup and oranges saw significant increases.
On average, grocery prices rose by about 2-3% over six months, aligning with Loblaw’s reported food inflation rate.
However, specific items deviated from this trend, offering opportunities for savvy shoppers to adjust their habits.
For example, the steep drop in tomato prices suggests a good time to incorporate them into meals, while the rise in canned soup prices may push consumers toward homemade alternatives.
The U.S.-Canada trade war likely contributes to higher prices for imported goods like shrimp and oranges, underscoring the importance of choosing local or seasonal products when possible.
How to Save Money on Groceries in 2025
With grocery prices fluctuating, Canada’s people can adopt several strategies to manage costs effectively:
- Shop Seasonally: Opt for in-season produce like tomatoes, which saw significant price drops, to maximize savings.
- Buy in Bulk: Non-perishable items like sugar, margarine, and canned goods are ideal for bulk purchases, especially when prices are stable or declining.
- Choose Store Brands: Generic brands often offer similar quality at a lower price, particularly for staples like peanut butter and tea.
- Plan Meals: Create meal plans around discounted items like tomatoes or stable-priced goods like canned beans to stretch your budget.
- Make It at Home: With canned soup prices soaring, homemade versions using affordable ingredients like lentils can save money.
- Use Loyalty Programs: Many grocery stores offer rewards programs that provide discounts or cashback on purchases.
- Monitor Sales: Keep an eye on weekly flyers and stock up on items like ketchup or margarine when they’re on sale.
The 2.8% food inflation rate reported by Loblaw in June 2025, while lower than May’s 3.3%, still outpaces the overall inflation rate of 1.9%.
This gap highlights the disproportionate burden food prices place on Canadian households.
The PwC report’s finding that 76% of Canadians are worried about food costs reflects a broader economic strain, compounded by trade uncertainties and global supply chain challenges.
Looking ahead, experts predict that food prices may continue to rise, albeit at a slower pace, as supply chains stabilize and inflation moderates.
However, external factors like trade policies and climate impacts could introduce volatility.
For now, understanding price trends and adopting smart shopping habits can help Canadians navigate these challenges.
The grocery price landscape in Canada in 2025 is complex, with some items becoming more affordable while others climb.
By leveraging data from Statistics Canada and adopting cost-saving strategies, Canadian shoppers can better manage their budgets.
Whether it’s capitalizing on lower tomato prices or making homemade soup to avoid rising canned goods costs, small changes can make a big difference.
As economic pressures persist, staying informed about price trends and shopping strategically will be key to keeping grocery bills in check.
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