Decade-Long, Mega-Study Finds Barriers To Access To Healthy Traditional Foods Are Eroding Food Security For First Nations

OTTAWA – On November 6, the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), the University of Ottawa, and Université de Montréal released the draft results of the First Nations Food, Nutrition and Environment Study (FNFNES). The FNFNES presents, for the first time, a body of evidence on the importance of traditional foods in the diet of First Nations and the impacts of environmental degradation such as chemical contaminants and climate change on First Nations citizens and communities and their ability to access these healthy foods.

“The study shows that traditional foods are still the best option for First Nations families when it comes to nutrition and health. The impacts of Climate Change and industry are eroding the land’s ability to provide healthy foods for too many of our people. It is important that food insecurity be addressed, the cost of nutritious food be lowered, and the impacts of industry be assessed. First Nations have long been caretakers of these lands and these lands have taken care of us. First Nations must play a role in this work. We know that maintaining a healthy environment must include action on climate change and pollution.” – Perry Bellegarde, Assembly of First Nations National Chief

The FNFNES reveals that between 24-60% of First Nations experience food insecurity, which is three to fi ...