Kraft Heinz Criticizes Trudeau’s “Misleading” Comments About Canadian-Made Ketchup
Kraft Heinz Canada issued a strong response after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau referenced its past production changes during a press conference on potential U.S.-Canada trade tensions. Trudeau suggested Heinz ketchup had been replaced by French’s ketchup because it used Canadian tomatoes, which prompted the company to call his remarks misleading.
Trudeau’s Comments on Trade and Ketchup
On Wednesday, Trudeau encouraged Canadians to purchase locally made goods to avoid U.S. imports that may face tariffs. He cited Heinz’s 2014 closure of its Leamington, Ontario plant as an example, stating that consumers turned to French’s ketchup, which continued using Canadian tomatoes.
Trudeau’s comments came as a reaction to U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed threat of imposing 25% tariffs on Canadian goods starting February 1, 2025.
Kraft Heinz Responds
In a statement issued Thursday, Kraft Heinz Canada expressed “deep disappointment” with Trudeau’s comments. The company clarified that it resumed producing Heinz ketchup in Canada in 2020 after consumer backlash.
- Heinz ketchup is now made in Mont Royal, Quebec, using Ontario-grown tomatoes.
- The company employs more than 1,000 Canadians and remains the largest purchaser of tomatoes in Ontario.
Kraft Heinz emphasized its long-standing history in Canada, stating, “With the exception of the five years from 2015 to 2020, we have made Heinz Ketchup in Canada for more than 100 years.”
The 2014 Closure and Return
Heinz’s 2014 decision to sell its Leamington, Ontario plant triggered a significant backlash from consumers. French’s filled the gap by continuing to produce ketchup with Canadian ingredients, earning loyalty from Canadian shoppers.
In 2020, Kraft Heinz reintroduced its ketchup production in Canada, aiming to restore its reputation and meet demand for domestically produced goods.
Context of the Dispute
Trudeau’s comments reflect Canada’s preparation for potential counter-tariffs in response to U.S. trade actions. Canadian officials have emphasized the importance of supporting local products during ongoing trade negotiations.
Kraft Heinz used the opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to Canada, highlighting the company’s Canadian operations and support for local agriculture.
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