Melissa A. Chlupach, Assistant Professor, Dietetics and Nutrition University of Alaska Anchorage 

The Alaska Food Festival and Conference has a diverse amount of information, ranging from farming in changing times to marine resources to traditional/indigenous foods. 

Why? Because Alaska has such a unique food system. By bringing people from various disciplines together, we share best practices to improve our food system, to increase food security, and to make sure we have food sovereignty throughout the State of Alaska.  I first attended the conference in 2016 and even had the opportunity to present on the Alaska Traditional Foods Initiative and Movement. 

This year, I have the opportunity to present again but with ANTHC/ANMC Executive Chef Amy Foote. We are excited to share how people, over the last few years, have thought outside of the box, implementing traditional/indigenous foods programs into healthcare, long-term care, schools, the food bank, and corrections. 

Food means and signifies so many things to everyone. It's important we preserve our resources. 

The Alaska Food Festival and Conference is a great way to do that. It's exciting to share and network with others.  It fills my tank.  

Melissa A. Chlupach, MS RD LD
Assistant Professor, Dietetics and Nutrition
University of Alaska Anchorage