In a surprising turn of events, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has ordered Found Coffee, a popular café in Toronto, to remove Vegemite from its menu and shelves. This decision has left the café's owner, Leighton Walters, a dual Australian-Canadian citizen, stunned and facing significant financial losses.
Founded in 2020, Found Coffee has become a beloved establishment known for its flat whites and oat bowls, all while serving a taste of home to the Australian expat community in Canada. However, as of April 15, 2025, the café has been forced to strip Vegemite from its offerings due to the CFIA's ruling that the product's vitamin B fortification exceeds what is permissible under Canadian food regulations.
Walters, who opened the first Found location in Trinity Bellwoods, explained, "We all grew up with Vegemite. It’s a taste of home for so many Australians living here in Toronto." He noted that the ruling could potentially cost him nearly $8,000 for stock he had already purchased.
Vegemite, created in the 1920s by chemist Cyril Callister, is a staple in Australian households, often enjoyed on toast. The spread has become synonymous with Australian culture, and Walters' decision to serve it was about more than just food; it was about sharing a generational tradition with fellow Australians in Canada.
Yet, the CFIA’s decision has raised eyebrows, especially since Marmite, a similar yeast-based spread from the UK, remains widely available in Canada. Walters pointed out the irony, stating, "It’s rather odd that [Canada is] letting Marmite in – which is rubbish, frankly." This sentiment was echoed by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who expressed his support for Walters, declaring, "I stand with the Aussie café owner. I actually put a lot of Vegemite on my toast when I eat bread."
Despite the CFIA confirming that Vegemite is not banned in Canada, they stated that Walters' specific formula did not comply with Canada’s Food and Drug Regulations. A spokesperson from the agency noted, "We recognize Vegemite’s tie to Australian culture and the interest in having access to this product in Canada." They also mentioned that they would continue to work with Found Coffee to explore options.
Walters, who has undergone 15 surgeries throughout his life due to Spina Bifida, emphasized that Vegemite holds personal significance for him. He stated, "This isn’t just about nostalgia or a food product I’m trying to sell. It’s personal. Folate helps protect unborn babies — and serving a jar of Vegemite in my café is something I can do that might help reduce the chances of another child having to go through what I’ve been through."
As the news of the ban spread, many Australians in Toronto expressed their disappointment. One regular at Found Coffee shared that they would come just for the Vegemite, underscoring its importance within the community. Another café, The Sydney Grind, which also offered Vegemite, confirmed they have scaled back their offerings due to similar concerns.
Walters has reached out to the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Toronto, hoping to reverse the ruling. He expressed a desire to avoid escalating the issue into a trade dispute but acknowledged the implications of the CFIA's actions on Australian-Canadian relations. "This is not good for Australian-Canadian relations," he stated. "Now that we know that they’re serious about banning Vegemite, we’re going to have to escalate."
The CFIA's decision has not only affected Walters' business but has also sparked a broader conversation about food regulations and cultural identity. As the café owner continues to navigate this challenging situation, he remains committed to providing quality coffee and a taste of home to his customers. "We know our coffee is top-notch," he said. "But Vegemite on toast? That’s the heart and soul of a real Aussie breakfast. And for me — it’s much more than that."
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the CFIA will address the concerns raised by Walters and the Australian community in Canada. For now, the future of Vegemite at Found Coffee hangs in the balance, leaving many wondering if this beloved Australian staple will ever return to the café's menu.
