The Inuit Food System: Ecological, Economic, and Environmental Dimensions of the Nutrition Transition

Abstract

From the Arctic to the South Pacific, Indigenous Peoples have experienced a rapid nutrition transition involving the decline of traditional/subsistence-based ways of life and the adoption of a “Western” diet that is high in saturated fats, sugar, and processed foods. This dietary shift has been paralleled by an increased prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and, other diet-related chronic diseases.

In the Arctic, rapidly changing biophysical conditions, globalization, and integration into market economies are collectively challenging access to both country foods and nutritious market foods. Food security and nutrient adequacy thus remain elusive for Inuit communities of northern Canada. Premised upon the view that human well-being is predicated upon complex and dynamic interactions between ecosystems, economies, and societies, this dissertation integrates multiple lines of inquiry and scales of engagement (community, regional, and national) to further understanding of the nutrition transition among Inuit in Canada. The thesis is comprised of two sections.

Section 1 bridges the often disparate fields of human nutrition and wildlife conservation by addressing key questions about the status and management of Arctic species, and the implications for Inuit food security and health. For example, caribou (Rangifer tarandus) populations across the circumpolar north are currently experiencing dramatic declines in abundance and restrictions on Inuit subsistence harvest are currently implemented for several caribou populations. Caribou, however, is the primary source of protein and several micronutrients involved in the prevention of anemia (e.g. iron zinc, copper, riboflavin, and vitamin B12) in the contemporary diet of Inuit adults. Caribou consumption is also positively associated with hemoglobin levels in Inuit adults.

Section 2 considers elements of the market food system in Inuit communities. We found that the most popular market foods consumed by Inuit (e.g. sweetened beverages, added sugar, and bread) contribute significantly to total diet energy while contributing minimally to most micronutrients. Using optimization models, we have demonstrated that a nutritious diet (one meeting Health Canada dietary reference intake values) is theoretically feasible based on a mix of country food and market food, and at relatively little additional cost from current diets. However, significant deviations in patterns of food expenditure away from sweetened beverages, towards dairy, and whole fruits and vegetables would be required.

Taken collectively, this thesis provides important information, as well as new tools, and approaches, for communities, wildlife conservation and public health professionals to jointly promote ecosystem and human health in a rapidly changing environment.