What's Happening?
Sheri Glazier, a dietitian at the Dirt Road, is organizing an event in Tulsa aimed at bridging the gap between agriculture and dietetics. The event, supported by the Oklahoma Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Oklahoma Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture,
and the Oklahoma Pork Council, seeks to provide immersive learning experiences for registered dietitians and students. Attendees will participate in activities at the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma, learn about pork nutrition, and tour Better Day Farms, which operates a hydroponic lettuce and herb farm supplying schools statewide. The event also includes a culinary session led by Chef Jeremy Johnson and a 'GROWN Gives Back' service project to assemble holiday food boxes for families affected by the SNAP crisis.
Why It's Important?
The event highlights the importance of connecting nutrition professionals with agricultural practices to enhance their understanding and ability to advise clients effectively. By providing hands-on experiences and educational tours, the event aims to close the knowledge gap between dietetics and agriculture, fostering a more integrated approach to food systems. This initiative is particularly significant in light of ongoing challenges such as food insecurity and the SNAP crisis, as it encourages collaboration and community support. The event also emphasizes the role of dietitians in promoting sustainable and informed food choices, which can have a positive impact on public health and nutrition.
What's Next?
Although tickets for the 2024 event are sold out, Sheri Glazier plans to continue organizing similar events in the future. She aims to include more outdoor produce operations and schedule the event earlier in the year to coincide with farm and orchard seasons. Interested individuals can stay updated on future events through the Dirt Road Dietitian website. The ongoing success of these events may inspire other regions to adopt similar initiatives, promoting collaboration between agriculture and dietetics on a broader scale.
