“While the food bank is grateful for any and all non-perishable donations, some are better than others,” explains Chris Hatch, Chief Executive Officer for Food Banks Canada. “The best donations are ones that reflect a nutritious dinner plate.” 

Here are some of the items food banks need the most this holiday season: 

Whole grain foods like oatmeal, barley, high-fibre cereals or whole-grain pasta contain plenty of fibre and are an excellent source of minerals like magnesium and iron. Food banks with meal programs will use them in their kitchens to create fresh meals for their clients. 

Baby cereals and jarred baby foods make good donations since roughly one third of Canadian food bank recipients are children. “Food banks don’t like to take chances with infants, so make sure your baby food hasn’t expired before putting it in the bin,” Chris recommends. 

Lean proteins from foods like canned tuna and chicken; plant proteins like peanut butter, beans, and lentils; or more complete proteins contained in other canned meats help in the maintenance of body tissue and contribute to a feeling of satiety. Nut butters are a favourite because they’re a versatile ingredient in snacks and meals. 

Canned fruit is high in vitamin C and dietary fibre. Likewise, if they’re free of added salt and sugars, studies suggest that frozen and canned vegetables are often as good as fresh produce. 

Milk alternatives like shelf stable milk, powdered milk, almond milk, and rice milk from the grocery store shelf contain vitamin D, vitamin A, and, most importantly, calcium. 

Money is by far the best donation you can make to your local food bank. Financial donations give food banks the flexibility to buy fresh perishables for their hampers or load up on items they’re not getting enough of. 

Making a trip to the grocery store for a holiday party? Pick something up for yourself and a Canadian in need. Donate at any participating Loblaw location during the National Holiday Food Drive. 100% of food and funds raised goes to your local food bank!