Viva Vitality: Virtual Tables – How food apps are redefining food security

By Amanda Hepp on May 16, 2025.

It seems like every time we go to the grocery store, prices are higher, and so is the bill. Inflation has led to skyrocketing food costs, making it harder for many of us to afford the essentials. In Alberta, 1 in 4 households experience food insecurity, with 1 in 3 children living in a food-insecure home.

Food insecurity means not having reliable access to culturally appropriate, nutritious food due to financial strain, which can negatively impact physical, mental, and social well-being. Food insecurity and nutrition are amongst the top four social indicators of health in Canada.

Many families rely on charitable food programs like food banks and local meal distributions to make ends meet. But as grocery prices continue to rise, more people are also turning to online communities for support, reaching out through local Facebook groups, community forums and mutual aid networks to ask for, or offer, food. This growing reliance on community support highlights the need for accessible and sustainable solutions to food insecurity.

One option that many people may not know about is discount food programs. These programs partner with businesses to sell surplus food at a discount, helping both consumers and the environment. These programs help make food more affordable while also reducing waste by selling surplus items that may be nearing their best-before dates but are still safe to eat. Some stores have formal partnerships with food-saving initiatives, while others may have in-house discount programs. It may be worth asking your local grocery store if they participate in such a program.

While some of these products may be past their best-before date, best-before labels indicate food quality, not safety. That means many foods are still fine to eat even after the date listed. These initiatives not only help people save money on food but also reduce food waste, keeping perfectly good food out of landfills. Considering that nearly half of all food waste in Canada comes from consumers, reducing waste at home can help stretch food budgets while also benefitting the environment.

For those looking for additional resources, services like 211 Alberta and Benefits Wayfinder can help connect individuals and families with local food assistance programs, community meal services, and other support options.

Amanda Hepp is a health promotion facilitator with Alberta Health Services.

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