The "Buy Canadian" movement is gaining momentum, with a recent Narrative Research poll revealing that 68% of shoppers prefer homegrown products, a five-point increase since February. More than half of consumers are actively checking labels to avoid items made in the United States. This trend is reshaping the condiment market, as consumers increasingly seek bold, international flavors to enhance their meals.

Among the brands leading this charge are six Canadian condiment companies that are making a significant impact. These businesses are not only boosting local economies but also showcasing the rich diversity of Canada’s culinary landscape. Asha Wheeldon, founder and CEO of KULA Foods in Vancouver, expressed her excitement about the movement, stating, "I’m loving how Canadians are recognizing all of the things that are available in our home. We have so many brands. We have so much richness of ingredients grown in Alberta, in B.C., and across Canada that we have access to."

One standout success story is Aki’s Fine Foods, founded by Shenul Williams. The company, based in Pickering, Ontario, experienced a dramatic surge in sales after Williams's daughter, Aliza Welch, posted about the brand on a "Buy Canadian" Reddit thread. This post went viral, leading to a staggering 6,000% increase in online sales. Williams recalled her fears of having to close the business, saying, "I was just venting. We can’t take another whip like we took through COVID, and these tariffs are going to kill us. We can’t survive."

Welch, who now serves as Aki’s marketing and outreach director, praised the support from Canadians, saying, "The way Canadians have been rallying behind my mom has been unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. We just cannot thank them enough." Aki’s Fine Foods offers a variety of Indo-African condiments, including pickles, chutneys, and barbecue marinades, reflecting Williams's Tanzanian roots and Indian heritage. Popular items include the medium-hot Coriander Chutney and the award-winning Zanzibar Spice BBQ Marinade.

Another innovative player in the market is La Brasserie San-Ô, based in Montreal. Founded in 2021 by Noriko and Yota Suzuki, the company produces a no-sugar-added, dairy-free Koji Cocoa Spread that won a silver innovation award at SIAL Canada. The Suzukis utilize koji, a traditional Japanese fermentation ingredient, to create unique products. Noriko noted, "This is a really magic ingredient to enhance umami in any kind of cuisine."

Their offerings include artisanal misos and sauces, all made with locally sourced Quebec soybeans. The Suzukis have found success among chefs in major Canadian cities, who are increasingly interested in incorporating koji into their dishes. Noriko remarked, "We’re really having fun incorporating new types of dishes with Japanese condiments."

As the condiment market continues to grow, brands like Aki’s Fine Foods and La Brasserie San-Ô are not only thriving but also contributing to a larger movement of supporting local businesses. With consumers eager to explore diverse flavors and support homegrown products, the future looks bright for Canadian condiment companies.