At Celiac Canada, we believe that advocacy begins by listening to our community. With the 2025 federal election underway, we asked you—our members, families, and supporters—what matters most to you when you head to the polls.
More than 1,800 of you responded, and your answers were powerful, honest, and passionate.
Over 80% of respondents ranked cost of living and affordability as a top election issue. For people living with celiac disease, the high cost of gluten-free food isn’t just a budget line—it’s a daily barrier to health. Many of you shared personal stories of skipping meals, rationing products, or struggling to feed your families safely.
While nearly three-quarters of you selected healthcare improvements as a key issue, many comments focused on gaps in the system that specifically affect celiac patients: long wait times for diagnosis, lack of knowledgeable doctors, and no public coverage for dietitian services. You want change—and you want celiac disease to be recognized within that change.
When asked to rate the current medical tax claim for gluten-free food, the average score was strikingly low. Many described it as burdensome, outdated, and unfair. In your own words, it’s “a system designed to keep people out rather than support those in need.”
You told us about the impact of this disease on your families, with many households managing multiple diagnoses. One respondent wrote,
“Our entire family has celiac, and we spend thousands every year on food that’s medically necessary. We need federal leaders to understand this is not a lifestyle choice—it’s survival.”
Another added, “It’s time for a refundable tax credit. Not everyone has the ability to keep receipts, calculate food differentials, or wait for a year-end tax break.”
We are using your feedback to advocate for a refundable flat-rate medical tax credit and to push for stronger federal recognition of celiac disease in health and tax policy.
You’ve helped shape our message—now let’s bring it to Ottawa.
Learn more about our efforts to ensure fair tax policies for gluten-free products. Your support can help us create a healthier, more inclusive community.
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