With Canada and the United States locked in a tense tariff standoff for the past few months, plenty of folks up North have been boycotting American goods. Others are at least rethinking what ends up in their shopping carts.
To help shoppers make the distinction, grocery stores across the country have started slapping “Made in Canada” stickers on shelves, while prices on American imports quietly creep higher — prompting more and more Canadians to jump on the “Buy Canadian” bandwagon.
But as many of us have learned, completely ditching American goods is easier said than done.
With that in mind, we decided to take the pulse of our social media followers and find out: “Which American item at the grocery store do you always buy, even if you’re trying to buy Canadian right now?”
Here’s what people say they’re still buying from south of the border — whether or not it costs a little extra.
Spinach
Multiple users admitted that when it comes to fresh greens, availability matters more than the label. With leafy produce like spinach often coming from the U.S. — especially in colder months — some shoppers are sticking with what’s on the shelf, even if it crosses borders.
Laundry detergent
Brand loyalty is a real thing, especially when it comes to how our clothes smell. Whether it’s Tide, Gain, or another big U.S. brand, some shoppers say they’ll pay the premium on detergent to stick with what works.
Campbell’s soup
Easily the most recognizable can in the game, Campbell’s still has a stranglehold on the canned soup aisle. While local brands like Aylmer offer decent alternatives, some Facebook users admitted they just can’t give up Campbell’s tomato soup — or their go-to Chunky cans that double as a full meal.
Pet food
Anyone with a cat or dog at home knows just how picky they can be. That’s why some pet owners say they are not swapping out their furry one’s imported food.
Orange juice
With Florida still dominating the citrus game, orange juice is one import some folks say they are unwilling to swap.
Oreo
Tariffs or not, some cravings are non-negotiable. One commenter admitted that Oreo cookies remain firmly on their grocery list, no matter where they’re made.
Arizona iced tea
At 99 cents a can (or close enough), Arizona Iced Tea is practically immune to inflation, and apparently, to boycott efforts too.
Processed cheese
It’s not exactly fine dining, but plenty of people still reach for those bright orange Kraft Singles when burger season hits. Sure, there are Canadian-made alternatives — and, you know, real cheese — but for some, nothing beats that nostalgic melt, even if it’s more plastic than cheddar.
Nothing
Not everyone’s crossing the border at the supermarket. Several commenters made it clear they’re fully committed to buying Canadian, no matter what.
“Nothing, if it says US it goes back on the shelf, look for another alternative and if nothing is found we do without,” wrote one user.
“None, I go without or find an alternative. Seriously, how important is it that we always have something? Just find an alternative and carry on,” another chimed in.
Whatever’s cheaper
While some shoppers are keeping a close eye on labels, others are more focused on price tags.
“My wallet is what matters,” one person wrote — and plenty seemed to agree. Whether it’s made in Canada, the U.S., or Mars, the way many people see things, if it’s on sale, it’s going in the cart.
