WHAT IS THE RECIPE FOR GOOD FOOD?
How much do political candidates know about what is happening in their federal riding about food insecurity? Are other related issues such as unhealthy school food, lack of affordable foods, food deserts and food banks included in their political platform?
This past Friday, October 4th, we embarked on a journey with political candidates of the Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie riding (Montreal, Quebec) to discuss how food security aligns with their political agenda and how it might affect residents at the local, provincial and ultimately, federal level?
As part of the national campaign hosted by Food Secure Canada, Eat Think Vote brings together community members across Canada to chat with their federal candidates about food insecurity and other food issues that matter to them. Our goal was to make sure that candidates of Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie understood and considered multiple food issues through round table discussions whereby participants could ask them questions, debate and / or share opinions.
Overall, we wanted to host more transparent and straightforward conversations with candidates on what the future government holds to encourage a food system where no one goes hungry, where food is healthy, and systems are sustainable.
FOOD SECURITY: A BITTER INGREDIENT
While food security was the overarching theme of the night, a great part of the discussions were focused on: 1) Universal national school food program and student food insecurity 2) GMOs and healthy diets 3) Indigenous access and the right of food.
Candidates shared their personal experiences when it came to food security, however, none of them provided specific examples as to how their parties will tackle food insecurity challenges in Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie and elsewhere.
“We know that our riding at Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie has disproportionate rates of economic inequality where some people are able to afford healthy foods while others can not”, Génvieve Hinse, candidate for the Liberal party.
Income and wealth disparities disproportionately impact visible minorities, in particular, individuals who live below the poverty line. Moreover, individuals experiencing poverty are more likely to be food insecure and therefore, more vulnerable to diet-related chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke or diabetes.
Candidates articulated the importance of tackling housing issues in order to combat poverty and food insecurity. However, when asked about concrete solutions, certain candidates advocated for a guaranteed minimum income while others focused on providing tax benefits to families and elderly populations. Little was said in regards to students, immigrants and isolated individuals.
Moreover, on the topic of creating a universal healthy school food program, it is estimated that every $1 invested brings a $3 to $10 economic return from improved health and education among children and increased productivity as adults. Nonetheless, one-third of students in elementary schools and two-thirds of students in secondary schools do not eat a nutritious breakfast before school.
While certain candidates feel strong in supporting betters school food programs, it is still unknown whether or not a national universal healthy school food program would make sense considering the political differences between provincial and federal responsibilities.
From honey to corn to soy production, we understand that our food system is highly governed by major agro-industry. “We know that most people are not buying real honey but fake ones,’’ said Laura Belfadla, founder of l’Academie vegetal. “We need better policies that favour small, local and organic farmers”. Most candidates do not have a clear and concise plan to move towards an organic and certified labelling. However, it is a necessary ongoing conversation considering the negative environmental impacts of GMOs food production.
ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTIONS
How might we ensure that candidates and the public recognize healthy and traditional foods as nourishing and culturally relevant? How might the future government support local farmers to transition to more environmentally friendly alternatives?
At Récolte, we understand that food is a lens through which we can see all sorts of other economic, health, social and environmental priorities. Therefore, is important to recognize how food goes from ‘Farm to Table’ in the most healthy, local and sustainable manner.
“I personally liked being in direct contact with the candidates and not the usual discourse of great words but no actions. I found that this event was interesting in the sense that I was able to confront candidates in a humanized environment!”, commented Josianne Ganon, co-developer and activities coordinator for Co-Po.
While elements of frustration and anxiety may have been present in the room due to the lack of clarity from candidates, we understand that it is through more informal discussions that we can educate our political leaders around issues of food and the environment.
Thank you to all of our facilitators who provided their time to host each discussion and keep the conversation alive with candidates. This includes Judith Colombo, Thibault Liné, Josianne Gagnon, Danie Martin & Dominique Lalonde.
