Policy, Power & Food Truth: Melinda Hemmelgarn on Agriculture Reform, Cultural Nutrition, and Media Literacy | ANEW Ep. 68

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In Episode 69 of the ANEW Body Insight Podcast, Dr. Supatra Tovar continues her eye-opening conversation with Melinda Hemmelgarn, MS, RD—investigative nutritionist, host of Food Sleuth Radio, and one of the most respected voices in food system advocacy.

In this second part of their rich and inspiring discussion, Melinda dives deeper into the intersection of agriculture policy, cultural nutrition, and media literacy, showing how what we eat is shaped not only by personal choice—but by powerful policies, corporations, and cultural narratives.

You’ll hear how U.S. food systems are influenced by legislation like the Farm Bill, and how monoculture farming, Big Ag lobbying, and industry subsidies affect food quality, health equity, and the environment. Melinda explains why living wage legislation, SNAP reform, and farm-to-school programs are essential for building food sovereignty and protecting the planet.

You’ll also explore:

• How corporate interests shape the food and nutrition messages we receive
• Why true health equity starts with access to culturally meaningful foods
• The need for media literacy in nutrition education
• The role of school gardens and community food programs in building lifelong healthy habits
• The importance of reconnecting to the soil and learning where food comes from
  
  

From growing your own herbs to questioning what's in your child’s school lunch, this conversation reminds us that small acts—like asking where your food comes from—can be revolutionary. Melinda also shares powerful stories from leaders and dietitians transforming institutions from the inside out, including hospitals that now grow their own food and communities that are reclaiming local food power.

Dr. Tovar and Melinda discuss how honoring cultural traditions in food is a pathway to global understanding, joy, and even peace. If you’ve ever wondered how to use your voice, your dollar, or your plate to push back against diet culture and the industrial food system—this episode is for you.

Learn more about Melinda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-hemmelgarn-m-s-r-d-a92b304 , https://www.facebook.com/melinda.hemmelgarn/,  https://foodsleuth.transistor.fm/,   https://x.com/food_sleuth,  https://www.instagram.com/melindahemmelgarn/?__d=1%3Futm_source%3Dig_embed 

💡 Want to break free from toxic food messaging and reclaim your health?
 Join the movement by enrolling in Deprogram Diet Culture at https://www.anew-insight.com

🎧 Listen now and discover how your food choices can become acts of power, healing, and resistance.

Thank you for joining us on this journey to wellness. Remember, the insights and advice shared on the ANEW Body Insight Podcast are for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your health routine. To learn more about the podcast and stay updated on new episodes, visit ANEW Body Insight Podcast at anew-insight.com. To watch this episode on YouTube, visit @my.anew.insight. Follow us on social media at @my.anew.insight on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Threads for more updates and insights. Thank you for tuning in! Stay connected with us for more empowering stories and expert guidance. Until next time, stay well and keep evolving with ANEW Body Insight!