Auslan90 | Deep Dive | Vegemite Spreads Stir in Canada

Published on: 26th June 2025


This is Auslan90 – Deep Dive, produced by Deaf Connect, supported by SBS.

In addition to our Daily news, Deaf Connect produces ‘deep dive’ videos which provide more detail and context to the biggest stories of the week.

Today’s deep dive focuses on a recent story about Vegemite.

Leighton Walters, owner of Found Coffee – a chain of Aussie-style cafes in Toronto – was shocked when the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) told him that he could no longer sell Vegemite.

The iconic Australian spread, known for its added vitamins, was deemed non-compliant with local health regulations despite its nutritional benefits, especially for Leighton who lives with a health condition caused by a birth defect.

Leighton, a dual Australian and Canadian citizen, and his story, quickly gained attention from around the world including from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Watch the video to discover what led to the ban and what happened next.

Images credited to Getty Images and Instagram: @found.coffee.to

This project is funded by the Federal Government Department of Social Services Information, Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) program.

Your feedback on Auslan90, the news we cover and the format will help Deaf Connect better understand the demand for accessible news, and potentially expand the program beyond the pilot, so please provide any feedback in English or Auslan to [email protected]

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