University Organization Expands Work to Improve Food Safety Across Native American Communities

Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative

The Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative at the U of Ar enhances the health and wellness of Tribal communities by advancing healthy food systems, diversified economic development and cultural food traditions.

The Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative at the U of A School of Law recently entered into a cooperative agreement with U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service. This $500,000 award will support the development, piloting and implementation of food distribution produce-handling needs. 

"The Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative is excited to work with USDA-FNS, the Native Food and Nutrition Resource Alliance and the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations to develop culturally appropriate produce safety curriculum and trainings for intertribal organizations," said Erin Parker, executive director of the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative.  

According to the USDA-FNS, "The goal of this cooperative agreement is to provide hands-on learning opportunities for FDPIR program operators to support staff receiving produce through the USDA Department of Defense Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program." 

More than 100 intertribal organizations support Native households with FDPIR foods monthly, including traditional foods and fresh produce. 

"The training series and ecosystems of resources IFAI develops will support intertribal organizations and FDPIR warehouse staff in their important work by providing tailored resources that support compliance and produce safety, all through a Native lens," Parker said. 

Learn more about the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative at indigenousfoodandag.com.