COMMUNICATIONS/LEGAL - FOOD POLICY ANALYST 10 Food Policy Analyst COMMUNICATIONS/LEGAL Canadians across the country are affected by food daily. On the base level it provides energy and nutrition to all those who consume it. Though it’s more than just that. It brings communities together and provides jobs to the many employed in the sector. Food policies are created to help build a better food system for all. They can be changed on the local, national and international levels making them relevant to all. Furthermore, they direct the public, private and non-profits sectors resulting in noticeable changes for the everyday individual. The professionals who help to shape these policies are known as policy analysts. . 1. Food Policy Analysts Examine Current Policies and Develop New Ones A food policy analyst studies how current and proposed laws, government policies and regulations affect individuals, organizations and the community. They perform detailed research to determine the effectiveness of a policy and suggest improvements to those that already exist. A food policy analysts’ recommendations are based on quantitative data from a variety of sources such as studies, surveys and reports. To make effective recommendations they must stay on top of emerging trends, public policy trends, activities and changes. They keep in the know with relevant associations and the community. It is key that they attend community events and adjust their recommendation based on feedback. Additionally, these professionals may prepare communication materials such as presentations and reports. Overall, food Policy Analysts try to influence political issues and raise public awareness surrounding food systems. 2. Food Policy Analysts are Expert Researchers Every policy recommendation begins with in-depth research. Policy analysts are required to collect and evaluate data to make informed decisions about policies. They must be able to cut through the noise and determine what information is most useful when they create policies. Places that food policy analysts can collect information from includes: • Research studies • Analyzing legislation and regulations • Surveys • Focus groups • Budget documents Food policy analysts use a range of research tools and methodologies. These tools can also shine a light on patterns that might not be noticed at first glance. In a hypothetical situation, a food policy analyst might conduct research and determine that houses within a certain climate and geographical region are at higher risk of being food desserts. Therefore, they might recommend a policy which limits factors leading to the rise of food deserts. Overall policy analysts need to stay abreast of relevant current events, public opinions, and political developments. Food Policy Analyst Shaping policies through in-depth research • Supporting local communities • Reducing food waste • Supporting locally grown agriculture There are different types of policy analysts as they can specialize in areas such as education, agriculture, environment, labour, energy and regional development. Specifically, food policy analysts focus on policies surrounding our food system. Some of their focuses include but are not limited to: • Access to healthy food Photo by Anna Shvets/pexels.com Photo by NINENII/stock.adobe.com
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