AGP Executive Report

Food Safety Recall Watch: Taylor Farms’ iceberg lettuce recall is expanding in the U.S. after shredded lettuce linked to a Cyclospora outbreak, with FDA tracing the issue to a Mexico supplier and Taco Bell removing potentially impacted lettuce in select states. Canada Context: Canadian officials say they’re not seeing tainted lettuce or Cyclospora outbreaks in Canada, even as U.S. case counts surge. More Canadian Recalls: Dollarama recalled Heavenly Spices garlic powder sold nationwide due to possible Bacillus cereus contamination. Operations Disruption: Coca-Cola says it’s temporarily suspending Fairlife production in the U.S. after a ransomware attack; Fairlife Canada production is not affected. Retail & Dining Moves: Stacked Pancake & Breakfast House is set to open in Victoria’s former Ross Bay Pub location. Community Food Events: Elora’s Longest BBQ returns July 28 as the Food Day Canada 2026 launch, with local restaurants and beverage partners. Weather & Dining Impact: Wildfire smoke and poor air quality are already changing restaurant traffic and outdoor plans in parts of Canada and the U.S.

Food Safety Watch: Canada’s CFIA says there are no cyclospora outbreaks in Canada and no implicated Taco Bell lettuce distributed here, after U.S. officials linked a multistate “explosive diarrhea” outbreak to shredded iceberg lettuce served in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia. Producer Response: Taylor Farms says it’s voluntarily removing products tied to the probe after CDC/FDA traced the source to lettuce it supplied to Taco Bell. Cyber Disruption in Dairy: Coca-Cola temporarily suspended Fairlife milk production in the U.S. after a ransomware-related cyber incident hit parts of its systems; Canada operations remain running and the company says product safety wasn’t impacted. Retail & Restaurant Ops: Wildfire smoke is driving practical changes—Detroit-area pizzerias adjusted delivery-driver time outdoors to protect staff, while Canadian wildfire haze also disrupted events and dining plans across the U.S. Hospitality Tech: Lightspeed Commerce rolled out new AI, payments and operations tools for Lightspeed Retail and Lightspeed Restaurant, aiming to simplify multi-location workflows. World Cup Spillover: Beer sales got a boost in the U.S. during the tournament, but broader beer demand remains pressured by “wellness” drink trends.

Food Safety Watch (Canada-linked): Health Canada issued a recall on Heavenly Spices Garlic Powder sold at Dollarama, warning consumers to stop using the 70g product due to possible bacillus cereus contamination that can cause diarrhea and gastroenteritis. Cross-Border Outbreak Alert: In the U.S., federal officials say shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia is linked to a growing cyclosporiasis outbreak, with more than 1,600 confirmed cases and 94 hospitalizations; Taco Bell says it’s removing potentially impacted lettuce from its supplier. Supply Chain Disruption: Coca-Cola says Fairlife is pausing U.S. production after a ransomware breach hit production systems; Canadian operations are not affected. Hospitality & Dining Trends (Canada): OpenTable’s 2026 list of Canada’s top hotel restaurants shows Ontario and Toronto dominating, with hotel dining increasingly drawing locals for staycation-style nights out. Experiential Retail (Canada): Montreal-based Leyad is pushing shopping centres to add more entertainment and “experience” tenants to keep people visiting longer.

Food Safety Alert: CFIA has recalled Dollarama’s Heavenly Spices Garlic Powder (70 g) over possible bacillus cereus contamination that can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Outbreak Watch: U.S. investigators say shredded iceberg lettuce supplied to Taco Bell by Taylor Farms is a potential source of the cyclosporiasis outbreak, with Michigan reporting 4,312 cases and 102 hospitalizations as the probe expands. Canada Angle on Supply Chains: Taylor Farms says it supplies across the U.S. and Canada, but Taco Bell’s actions are focused on affected U.S. states while authorities keep tracing. Corporate Disruption: Coca-Cola says it temporarily suspended fairlife U.S. production after a ransomware-related systems intrusion; fairlife Canada production is not impacted. Local Business Impact: Vancouver World Cup promotions didn’t deliver the expected boost for some Chinatown businesses, with sales reportedly down during match-day weekends. Health & Lifestyle: With wildfire smoke worsening air quality across parts of North America, Hamilton temporarily cancelled or moved outdoor programs indoors, including pools and wading activities.

Cyclospora Surge: Michigan’s cyclosporiasis outbreak has jumped to 4,312 cases (102 hospitalized) as officials eye lettuce and salad greens as the likely source, with investigations expanding across multiple U.S. states. Wildfire Smoke Fallout: Canadian wildfire smoke is pushing air quality into hazardous territory across the U.S. Midwest and East Coast, with Detroit among the worst-hit cities and health warnings to limit time outside. World Cup Spillover: The FIFA World Cup is boosting demand for hotels, bars and restaurants in some U.S. host cities, even as consumers stay cautious on spending. Interprovincial Trade Push: An Ontario Chamber report urges steps toward a single Canadian market, calling out barriers that raise costs and slow growth for food, beverage and goods. Low/No Alcohol Policy: The British Beer and Pub Association wants the alcohol-free beer threshold raised to 0.5% ABV and clearer low-strength labels—an issue that could ripple across Canada’s low & no category. Tim Hortons Camp Day: Tim Hortons’ Camp Day fundraiser is back in Kindersley, with proceeds from coffee sales supporting youth camps. Food Festival Calendar: Taste of Edmonton returns July 16–26 with 200+ menu items from 50+ local vendors.

Cyclospora Surge: Michigan reported nearly 1,000 cyclospora cases, with hundreds more in Ohio, as investigators still can’t pinpoint the source—prompting renewed food-safety urgency south of the border. Canada Food Safety Watch: CFIA says it’s not considering fresh-produce import restrictions amid the U.S. outbreak, while Canada continues routine cyclospora surveillance. Grocery Pricing Pressure: A new “Loblaws tax” label is spreading among shoppers as food costs rise and “shrinkflation” complaints grow. Liquor Trade Tension: Some provinces are blocking U.S. liquor, and a U.S. lawmaker is pushing for a formal trade investigation. Recycling Upgrade: Manitoba now accepts empty paper cups in blue bins (with lids/straws handled separately), aiming to cut contamination. Dairy Queen Deal: DQ Canada is offering $1 small ice cream sundaes for National Ice Cream Day (DQ Rewards required). Hotel Dining Trend: OpenTable data highlights hotel restaurants gaining traction with locals, not just travellers. Sports Sponsorship: Firehouse Subs becomes “Official Sub” of MLB in Canada and the U.S., launching an extra-innings promo. Community Food & Sport: Lazeez Shawarma partners with the Canadian Blind Cricket Association to support inclusive sport across the GTA.

Food Safety Watch: CFIA says it’s not considering fresh-produce import restrictions from the U.S. despite a fast-growing cyclosporiasis outbreak, while Canada’s public health agency says it’s not investigating any cyclospora outbreak locally. Health & Lifestyle: A major Michigan cyclospora outbreak has surged to nearly 1,000 cases in the latest AP update, with the source still unconfirmed and investigations expanding across multiple states. Restaurant Industry: MTY Food Group plans to close 45–50 Papa Murphy’s stores as competition and sales pressure bite the take-and-bake pizza chain. Community & QSR Partnerships: Lazeez Shawarma is partnering with the Canadian Blind Cricket Association to back inclusive sport across the GTA. Marketing & Public Health: Experts are calling for bans on junk food and soft drink advertising at big sporting events, pointing to World Cup digital promotion of sugary drinks. Hospitality & Dining: OpenTable reports hotel restaurant dining is up in Canada and launches its Top 50 Hotel Restaurants list for 2026. M&A in Dairy: Lactalis Canada is set to acquire Agropur’s fine cheese division assets, including Quebec brands OKA and Monsieur Gustav, pending approvals. Travel & Food Culture: Light Up Chinatown! 2026 returns in Vancouver with food collaborations tied to the festival. Outdoor Business Impact: Wildfire smoke is disrupting Northland operations, with some businesses and attractions adjusting schedules or cancelling.

Food Safety Watch: A major U.S. cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to explosive watery diarrhea is now centered on Michigan, with the CDC reporting nearly 1,000 cases in the state and hundreds more across Ohio, West Virginia and Kentucky; officials still haven’t pinpointed a single source, but Michigan investigators are zeroing in on lettuce and other salad greens, urging people to avoid bagged lettuce and pre-mixed salad kits and to wash whole heads thoroughly. Restaurant & Community: Browns Restaurant Group opened its sixth Liberty Kitchen location in Courtenay, B.C., adding another Mediterranean-leaning, premium casual spot to its growing brand footprint. Local Giving: Firehouse Subs donated $52,000 to Greater Sudbury Fire Services for new lifting bags and rescue gear, announced during the chain’s Sudbury grand opening. Summer Menu Buzz: A&W Victoria has brought back its nostalgic Root Beer Float for a limited time. Industry/Tech: Meridian Bioscience says Health Canada licensed its Alethia® CMV assay, expanding the company’s rapid molecular testing menu in Canada. Events: Toronto’s Food Day Canada 2026 kickoff is set for Elora’s Longest BBQ on July 28, with an all-ages street party format and local food and beverage partners.

Food Safety Watch: Canada is not reporting a cyclosporiasis outbreak, but experts warn the U.S. surge could still spread north; Michigan and Ohio have thousands of cases, and investigators are now pointing to lettuce or salad greens as a likely source while the CDC confirms more than 1,600 cases and tracks thousands of possible infections. Local Food Events: Toronto debuts “Brewery & the Beast” on July 26 with 30+ chefs and unlimited food and drinks, while Elora’s Longest BBQ kicks off Food Day Canada 2026 on July 28 (rain date July 29) with a free street party and a Farm to Fork education zone. Restaurant & Brand Moves: Chipotle is expanding into Mexico with its first restaurant opening in Monterrey, drawing backlash online over “corporate Mexico” concerns. Market Signals: A new report projects the kombucha tea market could top $9B by 2030, citing North America’s health-driven demand. Dining & Hospitality Tech: TD Merchant Solutions will bring the Clover all-in-one commerce platform to Canada, aiming to simplify payments and restaurant/retail operations.

Food Safety Watch: Michigan’s cyclospora outbreak has surged to nearly 1,000 cases, with health officials pointing to lettuce or salad greens as the likely source while investigations continue across 28 other states. Restaurant & Retail Shakeups: MTY Food Group says Papa Murphy’s will shutter up to 50 underperforming locations as it trims its corporate footprint and refocuses on profitability. Industry Innovation: Canadian teams are turning oat hulls into higher-value food and fibre products, including fermentation-based ingredients and greener extraction methods. Market Signals: Chipotle opened its first Mexico restaurant (Monterrey area) with Alsea, with more locations planned in Nuevo León and expansion into Mexico City in 2027. Local Hospitality: Vancouver is extending the Granville Street pedestrian zone by seven weeks after World Cup crowds boosted patios and foot traffic. Supply Pressure: Maritime fish and chip shops are raising prices as haddock costs jump following reduced quotas. Business/Brand Finance: Tilray will report Q4 and full fiscal 2026 results on July 28.

Food Safety Watch: A cyclospora outbreak in Michigan has surged to nearly 1,000 cases (about 992) with dozens hospitalized, and investigators are tracking similar illnesses in nearby Ohio—another reminder for Canadians to be careful with produce and hygiene. Hospitality & Dining: Victoria’s Fairmont Empress has been named Canada’s top city hotel for a second straight year, with updates to its dining lineup including a refreshed Q at the Empress. Restaurant Industry: MTY Food Group says it’s struggling to attract diners and plans to close 68 corporate locations, with most shutdowns hitting Papa Murphy’s. Canadian Agriculture: Minister Heath MacDonald wrapped Calgary Stampede outreach, announcing $4M+ in AgriMarketing support for Canada Beef and the Canadian Cattle Association. Food Culture: An Edmonton writer is on a donair quest, chasing the “best” version of the city’s beloved street food. Health (Tick-borne): Canadian doctors are urging clinicians to consider anaplasmosis as tick-borne illness rises, after a case in eastern Ontario showed myocarditis and a recovery with doxycycline.

Food Safety Watch: Michigan’s cyclospora outbreak is now nearing 1,000 cases (992 reported) with dozens hospitalized, and officials still haven’t pinned down the source—while investigations continue in nearby Ohio and other states. Public Health & Care: A Canadian Medical Association Journal piece urges doctors to consider anaplasmosis for unexplained fever as tick-borne illness rises in eastern Canada, noting doxycycline can treat it. Toronto Dining Scene: Salsa on St. Clair in Toronto turned deadly after an exchange of gunfire left two men dead and four others seriously injured; the festival’s remainder was cancelled as police investigate. Restaurant & Hospitality Openings: Foxy’s Tapas, Cocktails and Bodega is set to open Aug. 1 in Elora’s Ayrshire Hotel with a Michelin-trained chef. Beverage Trends: Heytea opened its first overseas teabar in New York, leaning into sit-down tea experiences beyond quick takeaways. Policy & Wages: Nova Scotia advocates are pushing to outlaw “tip theft,” saying the province is the only Atlantic region without specific protections.

Violence at Food & Culture Event: Toronto’s Salsa on St. Clair festival was rocked by an exchange of gunfire that killed two men and left four others seriously injured; police recovered two firearms, no arrests were reported, and the festival’s remainder was cancelled as investigators continued. Local Hospitality Buzz: Elora’s Ayrshire Hotel is set to welcome Foxy’s Tapas, Cocktails and Bodega on Aug. 1, led by Michelin-trained chef Miles Pundsack-Poe, who’s returning to his roots with Spain-influenced tapas and sharing plates. Nova Scotia Labour Watch: Advocates and industry groups are pushing Nova Scotia to outlaw “tip theft,” saying only some provinces protect workers’ gratuities by law. Canadian Food Business Note: MTY Food Group says it will close 68 underperforming stores after weak earnings, adding pressure to the restaurant sector. Health/Outbreak Context: A major cyclospora outbreak in Michigan has surged to nearly 1,000 cases, with investigations ongoing in multiple states.

Public Safety: Toronto police launched a manhunt after a shooting near the Salsa on St. Clair festival killed two men and left four others seriously injured; officers initially warned of an active shooter, later saying it was an exchange of gunfire between individuals, with two firearms recovered and no arrests yet. Food & Community Events: The incident happened as thousands gathered for the Latino-themed street festival, with witnesses describing sudden chaos and people being told to get down as police secured the area. Food Safety Watch (Cross-border): In the U.S., Michigan’s cyclospora outbreak has surged to nearly 1,000 diagnosed cases, with investigations expanding to other states—an ongoing reminder for careful food and water handling during outbreaks.

Food Safety Watch: A major Cyclospora outbreak in the U.S. is now at nearly 1,000 cases in Michigan, with the source still unknown and investigations expanding across multiple states; Canadian officials say there are no confirmed cases here, but Ontario experts stress that washing produce may not be enough because the parasite can cling in crevices and resist common sanitizers. Restaurant Industry: Montreal-based MTY Food Group says it will close 68 underperforming restaurants over the next 6–9 months after weaker quarterly sales and profit, with some closures tied to Papa Murphy’s. Beverage & Marketing: Coca-Cola is reporting World Cup-driven sales gains in France, including a 10% jump for Coca-Cola and faster growth for Coca-Cola Zero, crediting tournament visibility and fan activations. Canadian Food Events: Elora’s Longest BBQ returns July 28 as a free Food Day Canada launch party, adding more restaurants and local beverage partners after a record 2025 turnout. Wine Notes (B.C.): B.C. Pinot Gris is evolving toward tighter, more structured “food wines,” with winemakers leaning into acidity and texture.

Cyclospora Outbreak Watch (US, with Canada implications): Michigan’s cyclospora outbreak has surged to 1,562 confirmed cases and 44 hospitalizations, with health officials still unable to name the contaminated food source; guidance now goes beyond “wash produce,” including produce-by-produce handling instructions as cases spread across 43 counties and investigations continue in multiple states. MTY Food Group Restructuring (Canada): Montreal-based MTY says it will close 68 underperforming restaurants over the next 6–9 months after weaker Q2 results, including many Papa Murphy’s locations, as consumer spending pressure bites. Beef Price-Fixing Fallout (Canada): A proposed $8-million class-action settlement follows allegations of price-fixing by major beef suppliers, raising fresh concerns for Canadian customers facing higher costs. Restaurant Jobs (Canada): StatsCan data shows restaurants led Canada in youth job growth in the first half of 2026, adding more young workers than any other sector. Food Safety & Public Health (US): Separate reporting highlights how outbreaks and contamination concerns are driving stricter consumer precautions and official advisories. Local Openings & Promotions (Canada): Arby’s is set to open in Okotoks next week, while Tim Hortons Camp Day returns July 15 with proceeds supporting camps.