Facing Scarity

We are living in very strange times!  Over the past few weeks, we have been hearing about and experiencing supply chain issues. Waiting for delivery of items that in past days would be stocked or only a few days’ wait has affected most aspects of the economy.   Empty shelves are being reported all across the country.  And through it all, prices are rising while the value of the dollar is decreasing

Unfortunately, predictions for food shortages that will affect all of us are rampant.

There have been inter-connecting explanations for all of this:

1. Weather problems – Of course, we always expect changes in the weather but this year, there have been some significant disturbances. Recently, flooding in British Columbia and winter storms in Ontario have slowed everything down.  Some wholesalers have had to be creative about how to make up for the shortfalls but even these options are disappearing.
2. Food recalls – When there is a risk for consumers, government authorities identify and take action to remove items that are tainted. This can be because of growing problems or delays in shipping.
3. Staffing issues – Various viruses have lowered the number of people available in all aspects of the chain. Government funding has also removed some from the workplace when they found that it was more practical to accept subsidies and stay home with children, thus reducing daycare costs.  This is especially important for families who have been forced into home schooling due to repeated disruptions in academic programs for their children.
4. North American mandates – Every year over $25 billion dollars’ worth of food is importuned into Canada from the United States. Seventy percent of this is brought in over the border by truckers, according to Sylvain Charlebois, director of Agrifood Analytics at Dalhousie University.  Unwanted vaccine and quarantine requirements have led to formation of “The Freedom Convoy”.  This is a peaceful protest involving thousands of individuals who have begun a trek to Ottawa.   Their commitment is to park and stay at Parliament Hill until all vaccine mandates across Canada are ended.

So, what are we going to do when shortages occur and escalate?  Here are some thoughts to help you psychologically deal with the problems:

1. Don’t panic! Worry and hoarding are not good choices.
2. Start planning.  Take out a piece of paper and begin making a plan that will help you through the coming weeks and months.
3. Remember how our ancestors lived.  They would grow gardens and prepare foods to last them throughout the winter.  They didn’t have deepfreezes but would preserve items with root cellars and canning.  They only cooked what they thought they needed and always used up any leftovers.
4. Check your inventory. Most people have food at home already but usually cook the things that they prefer first.  Go through your house and write down what you already have available.
5. Purchase a little extra. If you can afford it, buy a large bag or container and re-package it into smaller portions. Think about investing in basics such as flour, sugar, milk, and dried goods.
6. Consider local buying options. Are you able to go straight to the farmer or market-gardener to get food?  If so, it will help them and you!
7. Learn how to store items safely. You will likely be surprised, for example at how many things you can freeze.
8. Research recipes that will help you to create nutritious and interesting new dishes. This can include going through your recipe drawer, doing an internet search, taking a cooking class or asking friends and family members for ideas.
9. Invest in items that will help you to save money by cooking and baking rather than buying pre-packaged items. For example, it is much less expensive to make bread, muffins, yogurt and soups at home.  Even making and taking coffee with you rather than buying it will save money.  Doing this will eliminate so much unnecessary packaging.
10. Consider growing options. Even in winter, you can grow produce and herbs indoors.  It is only a few weeks until you could start a garden outdoors.  Plan it and order seeds now.

We also need to face the fact that supply/demand issues will increase costs for restaurants who will pass them on to consumers.  Menu items will become more expensive. Once again it is better to plan than to wait until you are hungry and then impulsively purchase something that is costly but convenient.

Finally, think about those who do not have the financial means to purchase extra food.  How can you help them?   Sharing food is one way but giving your expertise in handling and preparing it, may be the best gift you can give.  You see skills can last a lifetime!

It’s okay.  We can do this!