Nutrition (Inuit Food Security) John Cheechoo Senior Policy Advisor Department of Health and Environment Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) Canada

Inuit Food Security and Nutrition in Arctic Canada  Definition of Food Security by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization: “Food security is a situation that exists when all people, at all times, have physical, social and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life.” (UN FAO 2001)

Inuit Food Security and Nutrition in Arctic Canada Traditional Foods Traditional economy of wildlife harvesting and wildlife (country) food consumption Local access Culturally based Knowledge, skills Social components ( trade, sharing, feasts) Market Foods Cash economy and purchasing of market foods (store bought food) Import access (by air, or sea) Cash based Affordability varies with income levels Limited variety

Inuit Food Security and Nutrition in Arctic Canada Country Foods : whales, narwhal, caribou, fresh water and marine fishes, musk oxen, seals, polar bear, walrus, migratory birds, ptarmigan, shrimp, shellfish, berries, seaweed, etc.

Inuit Food Security and Nutrition in Arctic Canada Store Foods: perishable fruits/veggies, breads, eggs, fresh and canned milk, canned meats/veggies, lard, vegetable oil, frozen meats/veggies, frozen dinners, flour, sugar, deli and cured meats, pasta, cheese, spices, frozen juice, juice crystals, soft drinks, cereals, candy, chocolate, potato chips, baking powder, oats, baby food, ice cream, etc.

Inuit Food Security and Nutrition in Arctic Canada Country Foods Nutritionally rich Provides energy Physical benefits (hunting) Culturally important Highly preferred Socially beneficial Harvesting costs rising Climate change impact Cultural preservation Impact on Youth Store Bought Foods Food subsidy (food mail) Supplements diet Complements lifestyle Offers variety Healthy foods Non healthy foods (diabetes, heart disease, obesity) Higher prices (2-4 times) High cost of living High cost of business

Opportunities for Collaboration  Food Security in relation to Arctic and Circumpolar Regions and Communities  Impacts, issues, and solutions for northern and remote Indigenous communities  Share information  Former partnerships on food security  Hold a conference internationally

Thank You