Food security in Nunavut, Canada: barriers and recommendations.

OBJECTIVES

The food supply of Inuit living in Nunavut, Canada, is characterized by market food of relatively low nutritional value and nutrient-dense traditional food. The objective of this study is to assess community perceptions about the availability and accessibility of traditional and market foods in Nunavut.

STUDY DESIGN

A qualitative study using focus group methodology.

METHODS

Focus groups were conducted in 6 communities in Nunavut in 2004 and collected information was analyzed.

RESULTS

Barriers to increased traditional food consumption included high costs of hunting and changes in lifestyle and cultural practices. Participants suggested that food security could be gained through increased economic support for local community hunts, freezers and education programs, as well as better access to cheaper and higher quality market food.

CONCLUSIONS

Interventions to improve the dietary quality of Nunavut residents are discussed.