Case 4 Share rations

In Indigenous communities, bannock was an important food item for survival and daily life. It was especially useful during the winter months, when traditional food sources like fresh vegetables and meats were not readily available. Bannock could be made quickly and easily, and its ingredients could be transported over long distances. It was an essential part of long journeys or hunting expeditions, offering a practical and nutrient-dense option for sustenance.It was introduced by European settlers, bannock quickly became adapted by Indigenous communities across North America due to forced assimilation and disrupted food systems caused by colonization. It represents the erasure of Indigenous foodways and the imposition of European culture.

Despite its controversial origins, Bannock bread symbolizes resilience within Indigenous communities. Creatively blending traditional ingredients with the concept of breadmaking, Indigenous peoples transformed and adapted Bannock, showcasing their resourcefulness in the face of adversity. It has become a staple at gatherings, ceremonies, and community events, serving as a tangible connection to ancestral knowledge and a reminder of Indigenous strength throughout history.

While processing, adapting and consuming this exotic food, the indigenous community is also figuring out how to respond to exotic cultural and technological products. Proper deconstruction and reconstruction is essential. Food, as a necessary and essential commodity for all peoples, has received a welcome in the indigenous community.