The responses are in! Find out how the major national parties responded to our questionnaire on food allergy policy. We asked them whether they recognize food allergy as a public health issue, and if they support our National Food Allergy Action Plan.
We also asked for their positions and plans on availability and affordability of epinephrine, access to an allergist, food labelling reform, investments in food allergy research, and how to build food allergy awareness to better support families and prevent issues such as bullying.
We received responses from the Green Party, Liberals, and NDP. Just prior to the start of the election, we had a good conversation with the Conservative Party where they confirmed that they generally support the National Food Allergy Action Plan. We are waiting to hear back from the Bloc Québécois.
There is consensus across all parties on recognizing food allergy as a serious issue and on taking steps to help Canadians live well with this medical condition. Read each party’s response to our questionnaire.
Here are some of the key highlights:
| Liberal | NDP | Green | |
| Agrees that food allergy should be a public health priority | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Supports the National Food Allergy Action Plan | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Commits to funding to implement the National Food Allergy Action Plan | Not stated specifically | ✔ | ✔ |
| Commits to a national pharmacare program (making epinephrine auto-injectors accessible and affordable) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Commits to improving physician access | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Commits to increasing funding for research/ ensuring research for food allergy continues | Not stated specifically | ✔ | ✔ |
| Would investigate how to improve allergen disclosure on foods | Not stated specifically | ✔ | ✔ |
| Commits to expanding mental health supports for Canadians with food allergy | Not stated specifically | ✔ | ✔ |
| Commits to collaborating on initiatives to improve quality of life for Canadians with food allergy | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Supports a national awareness campaign on food allergy | Not stated specifically | ✔ | Not stated specifically |
While some responses are less detailed than others, we are encouraged by the responses we have received from the parties.
Be heard this election
Voting day is Monday, October 21st! As this weekend is your final chance to make your voice heard, please call or visit your local federal candidates to share your food allergy story and to ask them to support our National Food Allergy Action Plan.
Your participation in #FoodAllergyVotes is instrumental in creating change!
