Exploration of Methodological Issues in the Development of the Market Basket Measure of Low Income for Human Resources Development Canada - ARCHIVED

The purpose of this document is to describe the detailed methodology and assumptions behind the construction of the market basket measure (MBM) of low income. Also this document will raise some issues and highlight some data limitations related to the MBM.

The MBM represents the cost of a basket that includes a nutritious diet, clothing and footwear, shelter, transportation, and other necessary goods and services (such as personal care items or household supplies).

The MBM methodology was developed by the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Working Group on Social Development Research and Information for Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC).