An Australian café owner in Toronto has removed $8,000 worth of Vegemite from his establishment after the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) deemed the product non-compliant with local health regulations. The incident, which unfolded on April 17, 2025, has sparked discussions about food regulations and trade between Australia and Canada.
Leighton Walters, the owner of the café, expressed his disbelief on social media, where he shared the news that his beloved Vegemite was being pulled from the menu. The CFIA stated that the removal was necessary because the yeast-based spread contained added vitamins, specifically vitamin B, which is against Canadian food regulations.
While Vegemite is a staple in many Australian households, the CFIA clarified that it is not banned in Canada. Instead, the issue lies in the product's formulation. Under Canada's Food and Drug Regulations, only certain products like cereals, specific milks, salt, pasta, and white flour are allowed to be enriched with vitamins. Spreads and condiments, including Vegemite, do not fall under this category.
A spokesperson for the CFIA explained, "The formulation sold at the café does not meet Canadian requirements established by Health Canada. The Vegemite product being sold was found to have added vitamins which are not permitted in this product as per the Food and Drug Regulations and is therefore not permitted to be sold in Canada." This ruling has left many, including Walters, frustrated.
Despite the setback, Walters pointed out that Vegemite is still readily available in major grocery stores and online platforms like Amazon Canada. He argued that the vitamin B content in Vegemite is primarily naturally occurring and beneficial for health. "As someone born with a birth defect, this is deeply personal," he stated. Walters was born with spina bifida, a condition that affects the development of the spine and can lead to various health issues.
According to Health Direct, the recommended dietary intake of vitamin B3 (Niacin) is 16 milligrams for men and 14 milligrams for women, with an upper limit of 35 milligrams per day. Given that there are 2.5 milligrams of B3 per teaspoon of Vegemite, a person would need to consume 14 teaspoons—or approximately one-third of a cup—to reach the upper threshold of intake.
Walters' experience has highlighted the complexities of food regulations and the challenges faced by food businesses operating across borders. Bega, the company that owns Vegemite, stated they do not currently export the product to Canada for sale. They acknowledged their limited ability to influence the CFIA's decision regarding the import regulations.
Experts in nutrition have weighed in on the situation, emphasizing that there is nothing inherently unsafe about Vegemite. The product contains ingredients such as yeast extract, salt, malt extract, color, flavors, niacin, thiamine, riboflavin, and folate, which are generally considered safe for consumption.
As the story gained traction online, many have rallied in support of Walters, questioning the rationale behind the CFIA's decision. The café owner has become somewhat of a spokesperson for the issue, advocating for a review of the regulations that have led to the removal of a product that many consider a healthy addition to their diet.
In an age where food globalization is increasingly common, this incident raises important questions about how countries regulate food imports and the implications for small business owners. The case of Walters and his Vegemite serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between maintaining health standards and supporting international trade.
Walters continues to engage with his customers and followers on social media, sharing updates about the situation and expressing his hope that the regulations can be reconsidered. He remains committed to serving his community and providing them with quality food options, even as he navigates the challenges posed by regulatory compliance.
This incident is not just about a jar of Vegemite; it encapsulates broader themes of food safety, health regulations, and the complexities of international trade. As consumers and businesses alike seek clarity on these issues, the conversation around Vegemite may lead to a more significant discussion on how countries can harmonize their food regulations while ensuring the safety and health of their populations.
Ultimately, the Vegemite saga is a testament to the passion and resilience of small business owners like Leighton Walters, who are willing to fight for their right to serve their favorite products. As the situation unfolds, many will be watching closely to see if this small but significant dispute leads to changes in how food regulations are applied in Canada.
