Australian PM Backs Toronto Cafe in Vegemite Regulatory Dispute

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticizes Canada's ban on a shipment of Vegemite, citing regulatory inconsistencies and cultural significance.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has enforced a ban on a Toronto cafe's $8,000 shipment of Vegemite due to added B vitamins, which violate Canadian food regulations.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese publicly supported cafe owner Leighton Walters, emphasizing his pro-Vegemite stance and criticizing the allowance of similar products like Marmite.
Walters expressed frustration over regulatory inconsistencies, noting that major retailers continue selling Vegemite while his cafe faces restrictions.
Bega Group, Vegemite's manufacturer, issued a statement of support for Walters, acknowledging its limited ability to influence Canadian regulatory decisions.
The dispute has evolved into a broader conversation about cultural identity, regulatory fairness, and the personal stakes for Walters as both a business owner and advocate.