AI in the Aisles: Canada’s Largest Grocer Integrates Shopping App with ChatGPT

RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney discusses how AI integration in grocery retail could impact farmers and the broader food supply chain.

fruit it baskets at the farmer's market

Assorted fruits at a farm stand. (Adobe Stock)

Adobe Stock

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS)Canada’s largest grocer is partnering with ChatGPT to allow shoppers to plan meals and fill their carts using artificial intelligence (AI), a move that could have ripple effects throughout the food supply chain — including back to the farm.

Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio on Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147, joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss why farmers should pay attention to this development,
noting that a shift in buying behavior could ultimately impact demand signals that move through processors, distributors, and eventually to producers.

In his conversation with RFD NEWS, Haney explained that when a major grocer integrates AI into its shopping app, it could influence purchasing decisions at the consumer level. The conversation also explored whether AI-driven grocery shopping could change food demand patterns. By suggesting recipes, ingredients, and substitutions, AI tools could shape which products consumers choose — and how often — and influence long-term consumption trends.

Haney also addressed whether this type of technology gives retailers more power within the food chain. As data collection and consumer insights become more advanced, he says, retailers may gain additional leverage in understanding and directing purchasing behavior.

Related Stories
Watch the AARP Live special on Wednesday, April 15 at 7:30 ET only on RFD Network and RFD+
Farm Bureau officials say the findings underscore mounting pressure on producers heading into the 2026 growing season, with input costs continuing to outpace farm income.
Corey Rosenbusch with The Fertilizer Institute joined us to discuss supply chain disruptions and what farmers should watch as global tensions impact fertilizer markets.
Event brings livestock competition into downtown setting
Natalie Roy from AgriSafe Network talks about women’s role in agriculture and the increasing need to address their unique health and safety needs as they form a larger part of the workforce.
In honor of Oral Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Jeffrey Gold shares how disparities in dental care impact rural Americans and why early detection is important.
Lewie Pugh, with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, discusses EPA DEF system changes and what they mean for the supply chain and fuel costs.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

While social media has labeled the possible event a “Godzilla El Niño,” experts say the intensity remains uncertain—but the signal for a stronger pattern is there.
Rising diesel and energy costs are squeezing farmers and rural communities, increasing production expenses and raising concerns about consumer demand for beef even as U.S. meat exports regain the Australian market.
Farmer John Jenkinson shares the latest on planting conditions in Kansas and what producers are facing this season.
Rising input costs may squeeze margins and shift planting decisions. Scott Metzger with the American Soybean Association discusses fertilizer market pressures and what is at stake for farmers as planting season ramps up.
Texas ranchers and lawmakers warn of renewed New World screwworm risks, highlighting prevention efforts, border concerns, and the role of sterile flies in protecting U.S. livestock.
Farm Bureau economist Danny Munch discusses the USDA’s request for feedback on data and research, how such requests work, and what farmers should know about submitting comments before the Thursday, April 9 deadline.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
When it comes to truck and tractor pulling, the National Tractor Pullers Association (NTPA) is a world leader as well as the sport’s oldest and most respected entity when it comes to premier competition. They host more than 280 sessions of pulling action throughout the U.S. and Canada.
Tom McComas became involved with toy trains by accident and with reluctance. But his passion led to the creation of “I Love Toy Trains,” which quickly became TM’s best-selling title and one of the bestselling children’s video series in the U.S.
Madison Brown grew up on the road and now invites viewers to follow along with her as she continues to indulge her love of exploring new places, including behind-the-scenes at big events and tourist attractions, and celebrity interviews with the likes of country star Toby Keith, former NBA player Karl Malone, former MLB pitcher Greg Maddux, and “Brady Bunch” star Christopher Knight (Brown’s uncle).
How do you define Texas? It starts with wide open spaces. It’s a beautiful, enchanted land full of amazing people and places. Then there are the cities and towns—big and small—each with its own culture and way of life. When you add these things together, you have an incredible mix of personalities that make Texas what it is today.
Discover the untold stories of farm families across the United States as they face tough decisions, adapt in unexpected ways, and fight to secure a future — for the next generation to carry on the farm. This unscripted documentary-style TV show follows the lives of ambitious farmers from diverse backgrounds across the US, highlighting the challenges, triumphs, and unique stories of these farmers as they navigate the world of agriculture.