Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed support for an Australian cafe owner in Canada facing a dispute with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) over Vegemite. Leighton Walters, who operates an Australian-style cafe in Toronto, was instructed by the CFIA to cease selling Vegemite due to its added Vitamin B content, which is deemed a violation of local regulations.
Albanese publicly declared his backing for Walters, stating, “I stand with the Aussie cafe owner,” and affirmed his fondness for the iconic spread, saying, “I can confirm here today that I am pro-Vegemite.” He also took the opportunity to critique Marmite, its British counterpart that remains permitted in Canada, remarking, “It’s rather odd that they’re letting Marmite in – which is rubbish, frankly,” adding, “Let’s be clear here, pro-Vegemite, anti-Marmite. That’s my position.”
The controversy began earlier in the year when Walters was notified that Vegemite did not align with Canadian food standards. In a social media post, Walters highlighted the inconsistency of allowing other retailers, including major grocery chains and Amazon, to sell Vegemite while targeting small businesses. He questioned the fairness of singling out cafes that provide a taste of home, stating, “I know it’s an acquired taste… but the principle and double standard doesn’t make sense to me.”
Walters pointed out the personal significance of Vegemite for him, explaining that its high Vitamin B and folate content is vital in reducing the risk of birth defects. He mentioned that the current regulations make it challenging for such products to be sold in a way that retains their health benefits.
The CFIA has clarified that the presence of added vitamins in Vegemite renders it unsuitable for sale unless modified to comply with their standards. Bega Group, the producer of Vegemite, has been approached for further comments regarding this matter.
This incident has not only sparked a conversation about food regulation but also shed light on the importance of cultural food items for expatriates and their implications for health and wellbeing.