In this episode, Michael and Sylvain discuss & debate the latest discussions around Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program, shifting global ag policy, and consumer trends from protein-fortified lattes to the surge in food delivery apps. Then, they welcome back Charlotte Langley, Founder of Nice Cans and CEO of Langley Foods, who shares how her cheeky canned seafood brand is raising sustainability standards worldwide. From MSC-certified sardines to bold collaborations and new lobster products, Charlotte reveals how indie food brands can drive lasting industry change.
In this episode of The Food Professor Podcast, hosts Michael LeBlanc and Dr. Sylvain Charlebois tackle the latest headlines shaping Canada’s food and retail landscape before welcoming back a dynamic entrepreneur reshaping the seafood category.
The conversation begins with a heated national debate: should Canada eliminate the Temporary Foreign Worker Program? Sylvain outlines the program’s critical role in agriculture, agri-food processing, and restaurants, weighing the Conservative proposal to phase it out against industry concerns. He highlights the tension between labour shortages in rural communities and youth unemployment, noting how food service has become “addicted” to low-wage labour. Michael points to staggering statistics—40,000 people applied for seasonal jobs at the Canadian National Exhibition—illustrating the urgency of balancing wages, job availability, and immigration.
From labour, the hosts turn to politics and trade. They unpack Quebec’s cabinet shuffle and the departure of one of the province’s longest-serving agriculture ministers, praising his role in championing Canada’s Grocery Code of Conduct. Sylvain also reveals how Cody Blois, now Secretary of State to Agriculture in the Prime Minister’s Office, may wield more influence over ag policy than the minister himself. There’s cautious optimism with both China and India as Canada reopens diplomatic channels, while debates over canola’s contribution to GDP spark discussion about food security, branding, and farmer uncertainty.
The news segment also dives into consumer behaviour trends: Tim Hortons’ launch of a protein-fortified latte (with Starbucks poised to follow), the surging popularity of food delivery apps despite their impact on food literacy and household budgets, and the mixed fortunes of Canadian farmers—livestock producers are enjoying high returns, while grain and dairy producers face challenges. Finally, Michael and Sylvain discuss Cracker Barrel’s failed brand refresh, underlining the importance of innovation that resonates with consumers.
The second half features a spirited interview with Charlotte Langley, Founder of Nice Cans and CEO of Langley Foods. A chef, ocean steward, and veteran food entrepreneur, Charlotte shares how her cheekily named canned seafood brand is making sustainability delicious. She explains how pushing for MSC certification in Portugal helped transform the entire sardine fishery, elevating sustainability standards across 21 operations. Charlotte also details her collaborations—like a World Oceans Day partnership with Cheekbone Beauty—and the creative process behind launching new products that are both innovative and scalable.
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