Whole Foods Defends Its Poppy Ban As Canada's Leaders Call It 'Idiotic' & 'Insensitive'

Amid backlash from many Canadian politicians, the Whole Foods Poppy Ban is being defended by the company, citing a very strict uniform policy.

In a statement to Narcity a spokesperson for the company said "Whole Foods Market honours the men and women who have and continue to bravely serve their country. We support Remembrance Day in all of our Canadian stores by observing a moment of silence on November 11th and by donating to the Legion's Poppy Campaign."

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Our dress code policy prohibits any additions Whole Foods Market Spokesperson

"With the exception of those items required by law, our dress code policy prohibits any additions to our standard uniform," they added. 

That uniform consists of either a Whole Foods Market coat, apron or vest, plus a hat and company issued name badge. 

The company's response comes after many Canadian leaders called out the move. 

Ontario Premier Doug Ford called it disgusting and disgraceful, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau retweeted a post calling it unnacceptable, and Jagmeet Singh said it was wrong while also referencing a similar situation with the Black Lives Matter movement. 

One of the strongest reactions came from Ottawa's mayor, Jim Watson who took to Twitter to call the company out. 

"One of the most ridiculous decisions made by a company in recent memory. Please reverse this idiotic decision and apologize to our veterans for your insensitivity," he said.