Recently, in the news there have been stories about the high cost of food. While some of the stories have concentrated on the international challenges, others have focused on the situation in Canada.

First, let me say that I have a lot of sympathy for low income earners in Canada–and I do support the federal government’s increase in food aid for the poorest countries of the world. Steps are and must continue to be taken to ensure that everyone can afford the basic necessities.

However, I am concerned when reporters in the big cities begin to criticize the “high” prices that farmers are getting for crops like wheat, canola and barley. It needs to be remembered that the cost of packaging our food is often more costly than the raw commodity that goes into the food product. The wrapper around a loaf costs more than the wheat it took to make the bread, according to Minister of Agriculture Gerry Ritz during a recent speech in the House of Commons.

Farmers should not be criticized for getting 15 cents back on a loaf of bread. The cost of wheat makes up a very small percentage of the total price of bread. After all, a bushel of wheat makes about 57 loaves.

Another thing that the critics forget is that farmers are working hard to grow more food. More potash is being mined, more machines are being used, and ultimately more food is being produced. A higher price for agriculture products is good for Saskatchewan, and we should be proud of our role as the breadbasket of Canada—and the world.

I’m Brad Trost, your Member of Parliament in Saskatoon-Humboldt. You can call my office in Saskatoon at 975-6133, or drop by to visit our two offices: one in Saskatoon (five days a week) and the other in Humboldt (Tuesdays and Wednesdays). I always appreciate your feedback.