Episode 173: The Culture Shift in Food
About the Podcast
In this episode, Clancy speaks with Vanessa Mukhebi and Selena Mao. Vanessa Mukhebi is a global nomad, storyteller, food anthropologist, and professional troublemaker who is the Communications Manager of ReFED while Selena Mao serves as the Manager of Research and Insights, developing information and accompanying technical products to reduce food loss and waste. You won’t want to miss their discussion about food racies, food apartheid, redlining, and injustices that create health inequity in the U.S. Enjoy the show!
About Vanessa Mukhebi and Selena Mao
Rooted in Kenya, raised in the Netherlands, redefined in Australia, and radiating in Chicago, Vanessa Mukhebi is a global nomad, storyteller, food anthropologist, and professional troublemaker. She is the Communications Manager of ReFED, and the Vice Chair of the Auxiliary Board in the Inspiration Corporation.
Selena Mao serves as ReFED's Manager, Research & Insights, developing information, and accompanying technical products to help galvanize national efforts to reduce food loss and waste. Previously, Selena supported the Chief Sustainability Office for Los Angeles County to assess how the L.A. regional food economy was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Discussion Takeaways
- Food security is more than just the access to food.
- Food is one of the most intimate investments that people make each day. It can allow people to deprive, survive, or thrive.
- People don't just need access to food. People need the tools and mechanisms to be able to continuously feed themselves. This includes housing, employment, and economic opportunities.
- Food is a basic human right. A lot of entities in the market today ignore that right.
- There is a need for a cultural shift in how people get their food.
- Food dignity means having the ability to access food that is nutritious, affordable, and culturally appropriate.
#1 tip to improve access to healthy food
True food dignity comes when people have the power to choose what they eat. Start small—engage with your community, volunteer, and move a billion little stones to create lasting change.
Each week on the Food Dignity® Podcast, the Food Dignity® Movement's Clancy Harrison hosts a wide variety of hunger experts and other people making changes on the frontlines. Join us as we dive deep into conversations that will change the way you think about food insecurity.
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