The contemporary food supply of three northern Manitoba Cree communities

A complex set of social, economic, cultural and environmental circumstances affecting native Canadians in northern regions has resulted in the dietary replacement of indigenous foods with marketed products not always of equivalent nutritional value. This article examines the current food supply in three northern Manitoba Cree communities by looking at the availability and preservation of traditional foods, the price of marketed foods and perceptions of the food supply. Data were obtained by questionnaire from older adults (over 55 years) and younger women (16-45 years) in each community. The food supply comprised a mix of traditional and marketed foods, with limited use of traditional methods of food preservation. Marketed food prices were high in communities without all-weather road access. Respondents expressed a desire for more traditional food. Promotion of traditional foods could increase nutrient intake, decrease food costs and contribute to a revival of interest in Cree culture.