O6 Association of Food Security and Access to Traditional Foods Among American Indians and Alaska Natives

Abstract

Background One in 4 American Indians or Alaska Natives (AIAN) are estimated to experience food insecurity. Access to traditional food sources may, in part, explain the high prevalence of food insecurity. Traditional foods were primary sources of nutrition and could often be acquired through non-market mechanisms prior to colonization. Whether and how access relates to food insecurity is unknown. Objective To assess whether access and consumption of traditional native foods is associated with food insecurity among AIAN. Study Design, Setting, Participants Cross-sectional pilot study using a paper-and-pencil questionnaire administered at a National Powwow in October 2019. Adults that self-identified as AIAN were recruited in-person. Measurable Outcome/Analysis Food insecurity was assessed with 2 items to capture the dimensions of adequate quality and sufficient quantity of foods. Native foods security was assessed with 1 validated item on a 4-point Likert scale for perceived sufficiency of native food access ranging from ‘never’ to ‘always’. Hunting, fishing, and gathering practices were also reported. Chi-squared tests were used to assess the relationship of food insecurity with native foods access and use. Results The mean age of 39 respondents was 43.5 (±13.7) years and 56.4% identified as female. Food insecurity was high, with 31% reporting insufficient quantity or compromised quality. Native foods insecurity (rated as ‘never’ or ‘rarely’) was also high, reported by 74% of respondents. Native foods insecurity was common, regardless of food insecurity status (P > .05). Fishing to access native foods was more common among those also reporting insufficient quantity (P Conclusion Though limited by sample size, this pilot study provides support for future hypotheses and investigations related to native foods and food insecurity. Future work should use mixed methods to better understand food insecurity, access to native foods, and the potential relationship with diet. Funding None.