Vegemite will once again be available at a cafe in Toronto after the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) approved its short-term sale. This decision follows a health risk assessment conducted by Health Canada, which found that the added vitamins in Vegemite pose a low risk to human health when consumed in recommended serving sizes.
The CFIA is collaborating with the product’s importer to facilitate Vegemite’s availability while working on updated labelling and a long-term strategy for its distribution across Canada. The Canadian government is dedicated to ensuring food safety while also making culturally significant products accessible.
The reinstatement of Vegemite on the cafe menu follows a significant campaign, supported by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. He hailed the CFIA’s ruling as a “win for Australian industry,” emphasising its importance not only for Australian pride but also for Canadian consumers wishing to enjoy this iconic Australian product. Albanese expressed gratitude to the Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carney, for facilitating this outcome, stating that it would allow cafe owner Leighton Walters to bring Vegemite back to his patrons.
This move has been celebrated as a positive development for both nations and a reaffirmation of cultural ties.