Coffee culture in Canada is experiencing a shift as cafés begin to replace the term "Americano" with "Canadiano." This change, which started as a playful suggestion from Kicking Horse Coffee, has sparked a national conversation about identity and food culture. The name change is more than just a marketing tactic; it reflects deeper issues of national pride and cultural significance.
• The trend began on February 6, 2025, with a social media post from Kicking Horse Coffee, encouraging other cafés to adopt the name "Canadiano."
• This renaming taps into a historical pattern where food names have been changed during political tensions, like "Liberty Cabbage" during WWI.
• The shift comes amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Canada, particularly regarding trade tariffs.
• The Canadiano serves as a subtle yet powerful symbol of Canadian identity, sparking discussions about national branding.
This conversation matters because it highlights how everyday choices, like ordering coffee, can reflect broader social and political sentiments. Food is not just about sustenance; it can be a form of expression and protest. The Canadiano trend invites Canadians to engage in a dialogue about their identity and relationship with their neighbor to the south.
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