Glossary

8.3 Nutrition and food security

5 min read•august 13, 2024

Arctic nutrition and food security are complex issues intertwined with traditional practices and modern challenges. Climate change, environmental contaminants, and economic factors threaten traditional food systems, leading to increased in many Arctic communities.

Despite these challenges, traditional Arctic diets remain nutrient-dense and culturally significant. Community-based initiatives, local food production, and comprehensive strategies offer opportunities to improve food security while preserving cultural practices and traditional knowledge.

Traditional Food Systems in Arctic Communities

Hunting, Fishing, and Gathering Practices

Top images from around the web for Hunting, Fishing, and Gathering Practices

  • Kongakut River Fishing, Arctic NWR | A fisherman displays hi… | Flickr View original

    Is this image relevant?

  • Kongakut River Fishing, Arctic NWR | A fisherman displays hi… | Flickr View original

    Is this image relevant?

1 of 2

Top images from around the web for Hunting, Fishing, and Gathering Practices

  • Kongakut River Fishing, Arctic NWR | A fisherman displays hi… | Flickr View original

    Is this image relevant?

  • Kongakut River Fishing, Arctic NWR | A fisherman displays hi… | Flickr View original

    Is this image relevant?

1 of 2
  • Traditional food systems in Arctic communities involve hunting, fishing, and gathering practices passed down through generations providing a vital source of nutrition and
  • These food systems are closely tied to the land, sea, and ice relying on a deep understanding of the local environment and the seasonal availability of different food sources
  • The harvesting and consumption of traditional foods play a significant role in the spiritual and cultural practices of many Arctic Indigenous peoples connecting them to their ancestors and the natural world
  • Traditional hunting practices include the use of specialized tools and techniques (harpoons, ice fishing, and berry picking) adapted to the unique Arctic environment

Sharing and Cultural Significance

  • Traditional foods, such as marine mammals (seals, walrus), fish (Arctic char, salmon), caribou, and berries, are often shared among community members through cultural practices like food sharing networks and communal feasts strengthening social bonds and ensuring equitable access to resources
  • Food sharing networks involve the distribution of harvested foods among extended family members, elders, and those in need fostering a sense of community and reciprocity
  • Communal feasts, such as the Inuit Thanksgiving celebration of Quviasukvik, bring together community members to share traditional foods, stories, and cultural traditions
  • Traditional food systems are not only a source of physical sustenance but also contribute to the mental and emotional well-being of Arctic communities by fostering a sense of identity, purpose, and connection to the land

Food Insecurity in the Arctic

Environmental and Economic Factors

  • Climate change is a major driver of food insecurity in the Arctic as rising temperatures, changing weather patterns, and the loss of sea ice disrupt traditional food systems making hunting and fishing more difficult and dangerous
  • The high cost of living in remote Arctic communities, combined with limited economic opportunities and high rates of poverty, can make it challenging for many households to afford sufficient, nutritious food
  • Limited access to affordable, fresh, and healthy store-bought foods in many Arctic communities, due to factors such as high transportation costs and limited retail options, can exacerbate food insecurity and lead to a greater reliance on processed, nutrient-poor foods

Contaminants and Traditional Knowledge Erosion

  • The increasing presence of contaminants in the Arctic environment, such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals (mercury, lead), can accumulate in the tissues of traditional food sources raising concerns about the safety and health risks associated with their consumption
  • The erosion of traditional knowledge and skills related to hunting, fishing, and food preparation, particularly among younger generations, can undermine the resilience and sustainability of traditional food systems
  • The loss of traditional knowledge can be attributed to factors such as forced assimilation, residential schools, and the increasing influence of Western culture and lifestyles
  • The transmission of traditional knowledge from elders to younger generations is crucial for maintaining the vitality and adaptability of traditional food systems in the face of changing environmental and social conditions

Nutritional Value of Arctic Diets

Nutrient-Dense Traditional Foods

  • Traditional Arctic diets, based on locally harvested foods such as marine mammals, fish, caribou, and wild plants, are generally high in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential micronutrients (vitamin D, iron, zinc)
  • The consumption of nutrient-dense traditional foods has been associated with lower rates of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease among Arctic Indigenous populations compared to those who rely more heavily on store-bought, processed foods
  • The fat content of traditional Arctic diets, particularly from marine mammals (seals, whales), is rich in omega-3 fatty acids linked to improved cardiovascular health, brain function, and anti-inflammatory properties

Challenges to Nutritional Value

  • The nutritional value of traditional Arctic diets can be compromised by factors such as environmental contaminants, climate change-induced shifts in species availability and quality, and the loss of traditional knowledge about food preparation and storage practices
  • Environmental contaminants, such as mercury and PCBs, can bioaccumulate in the tissues of marine mammals and fish posing health risks to those who consume them regularly
  • Climate change can alter the distribution, abundance, and quality of traditional food sources (reduced sea ice affecting seal and walrus populations) making it more difficult for Arctic communities to access nutrient-dense foods
  • The loss of traditional knowledge about food preparation and storage practices (, drying) can lead to the improper handling and consumption of traditional foods increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses

Food Security Challenges and Opportunities in the Arctic

Community-Based Initiatives and Local Food Production

  • Strengthening and revitalizing traditional food systems through community-based initiatives, such as hunter support programs, youth mentorship, and the documentation and sharing of traditional knowledge, can help to improve food security and cultural resilience in Arctic communities
  • Hunter support programs provide resources (equipment, fuel, training) to help hunters and fishers continue to access traditional food sources in the face of changing environmental conditions
  • Youth mentorship initiatives pair experienced elders with younger community members to facilitate the transfer of traditional knowledge and skills related to hunting, fishing, and food preparation
  • Investing in local food production and processing infrastructure, such as greenhouses, community gardens, and small-scale animal husbandry, can increase the availability of fresh, affordable, and culturally appropriate foods while creating new economic opportunities

Collaboration and Comprehensive Strategies

  • Improving transportation and distribution networks for both traditional and store-bought foods can help to reduce costs, increase variety, and ensure more reliable access to healthy food options in remote Arctic communities
  • Collaborating with Indigenous organizations, public health agencies, and research institutions to monitor and address the impacts of environmental contaminants on traditional food sources and human health can help to ensure the safety and sustainability of Arctic diets
  • Developing and implementing comprehensive food security strategies that address the multiple, intersecting drivers of food insecurity in the Arctic, such as poverty, housing, education, and mental health, can help to build more resilient and equitable food systems over the long term
  • Comprehensive food security strategies should be developed in close consultation with Arctic Indigenous communities to ensure that they reflect local priorities, knowledge, and cultural values

Key Terms to Review (18)

Climate change impacts: Climate change impacts refer to the effects and consequences of climate change on natural and human systems, resulting in shifts in temperature, precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events. These impacts are particularly pronounced in vulnerable regions, where they affect ecosystems, food security, health outcomes, and socio-economic conditions, making them critical for understanding challenges faced by communities.
Cultural Identity: Cultural identity refers to the sense of belonging to a particular culture, shaped by shared practices, beliefs, values, and history. This concept plays a vital role in how individuals and communities understand themselves and their place in the world, influencing health practices, social dynamics, and food security issues.
Dr. C. T. Williams: Dr. C. T. Williams was a prominent researcher and advocate in the field of nutrition and food security, particularly focusing on issues relevant to Indigenous populations in the Arctic. His work highlighted the intricate relationship between traditional food systems, cultural identity, and health outcomes, bringing attention to how modern challenges impact the nutritional practices of these communities.
Drying fish: Drying fish is a preservation method that involves removing moisture from fish to inhibit the growth of bacteria and extend its shelf life. This age-old technique not only enhances the flavor and texture of fish but also makes it easier to store and transport, especially in regions with limited access to refrigeration. Drying fish is an important practice in many cultures, contributing significantly to food security and nutrition by providing a reliable source of protein.
Economic barriers: Economic barriers refer to obstacles that prevent individuals or communities from accessing financial resources, services, or opportunities necessary for economic advancement. These barriers can include factors like poverty, unemployment, high costs of goods and services, and lack of access to credit or markets. They can significantly impact nutrition and food security, as limited economic resources restrict individuals' ability to obtain sufficient and healthy food.
Fermentation: Fermentation is a metabolic process that converts sugar to acids, gases, or alcohol using microorganisms like yeast or bacteria. This process is crucial for preserving food and enhancing flavors, while also playing a significant role in nutritional practices and food security by enabling communities to utilize available resources effectively.
Food insecurity: Food insecurity refers to the lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life. This condition can result from various factors such as economic challenges, social inequalities, and environmental issues, impacting people's ability to obtain sufficient nutrition. Food insecurity is deeply intertwined with health outcomes, sustainable practices, and climate impacts, which makes it a critical concern across multiple domains.
Food sovereignty: Food sovereignty is the right of peoples to healthy and culturally appropriate food produced through ecologically sound and sustainable methods. It emphasizes local control over food systems, allowing communities to define their own agricultural practices and policies, prioritizing food security and nutrition while respecting cultural identities.
Foraging practices: Foraging practices refer to the traditional methods of gathering wild plants, hunting animals, and fishing for food, primarily used by hunter-gatherer societies. These practices are crucial for understanding how communities obtain nutrition and ensure food security, especially in environments where agriculture is not viable or sustainable.
Indigenous ecological knowledge: Indigenous ecological knowledge refers to the understanding and insights about ecosystems, species, and sustainable practices that indigenous peoples have developed over generations. This knowledge encompasses cultural beliefs, practices, and local observations that contribute to the management of natural resources, ensuring food security and nutrition for their communities.
Mary Simon: Mary Simon is a prominent Canadian politician and the first Indigenous Governor General of Canada, serving since July 2021. Her leadership emphasizes the importance of Indigenous rights, reconciliation, and food security in Northern communities, particularly among Inuit populations who face significant challenges related to nutrition and access to traditional food sources.
Resource depletion: Resource depletion refers to the exhaustion of natural resources due to excessive consumption, extraction, or degradation. This phenomenon can result in significant environmental, economic, and social challenges, as the diminishing availability of resources affects food security, livelihoods, and sustainable development. Understanding resource depletion is crucial for developing strategies to manage resources wisely and maintain ecological balance.
Seal meat: Seal meat is the edible flesh derived from seals, a vital food source for many Arctic communities. It holds significant cultural importance and nutritional value, particularly for Indigenous peoples who rely on it for sustenance and traditional practices. This meat is rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, making it crucial for maintaining food security in harsh Arctic environments.
Spiritual connection to land: A spiritual connection to land refers to the deep, often sacred relationship that individuals or communities have with their environment, where the land is seen as more than just a physical space but a source of identity, culture, and sustenance. This connection encompasses a sense of belonging and stewardship that informs practices around nutrition and food security, linking people to their traditional foods, rituals, and holistic ways of living.
Subsistence hunting: Subsistence hunting refers to the practice of hunting for the primary purpose of meeting the basic nutritional needs of individuals or communities, rather than for commercial profit or trade. This form of hunting is crucial in many Arctic communities, as it directly connects to cultural traditions, food security, and the sustainable management of local wildlife populations within unique ecosystems. It plays a significant role in how people adapt to their environment and respond to changes in resource availability.
Traditional inuit diet: The traditional Inuit diet is characterized by a reliance on locally sourced foods, primarily consisting of marine mammals, fish, birds, and land animals, tailored to the harsh Arctic environment. This diet not only provides essential nutrients but also reflects the cultural practices and knowledge of the Inuit people, promoting food security and nutrition in a region where agriculture is nearly impossible.
Transportation challenges: Transportation challenges refer to the difficulties faced in moving people and goods across various terrains and climates, particularly in remote or harsh environments. These challenges are crucial to understanding issues like food security and nutrition, as they impact access to essential resources, particularly in areas with limited infrastructure or extreme weather conditions.
Whale blubber: Whale blubber is a thick layer of fat found beneath the skin of whales, serving essential functions such as insulation, energy storage, and buoyancy. This fatty tissue is crucial for the survival of whales in the frigid waters of the Arctic and provides a vital source of nutrition for indigenous peoples relying on marine mammals for sustenance.
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
Back
Practice QuizGlossary
Practice QuizGlossary
Next guide