As Canadians gear up to grill for the August long weekend, a beloved summer tradition faces a new challenge: beef prices have surged by 25% over the past year, surpassing inflation rates and pushing the cost of summer staples like burgers and steaks to unprecedented levels.
In May 2025, the price of ground beef reached $14.67 per kilogram, a significant increase from $11.72 a year earlier, far exceeding the country’s current inflation rate of 1.7%.
During this busy grilling holiday, Canadians across the country are reluctant to give up their favorite beef dishes despite the historic price highs. Factors such as trade tensions and a growing trend to support local producers have only intensified the demand for domestic beef.
The surge in prices is attributed to smaller herds resulting from prolonged drought in Western Canada and high feed costs. Some farmers in areas like southwest Saskatchewan and southern Alberta have been severely impacted by the lack of moisture, leading them to downsize their herds rather than incur high feeding expenses.
While some ranchers are benefiting from the increased demand for local beef, others are struggling with the escalating costs of purchasing cattle. Despite the challenges, the current market trends indicate a sustained period of elevated beef prices, with consumers showing a willingness to pay the premium for their summer barbecues.
