BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – Many community members have come forward with creative ways to help families break even during the SNAP pause, including Katie Johnke, a registered dietitian who is educating the public on how to eat healthy on a budget.
This is a pretty typical day for Bismarck Burleigh Public Health Registered Dietitian Katie Johnke as she creates a healthy meal. Her work is all the more important as SNAP recipients have to make due with less.
“We all deserve the ability to access food,” said Johnke.
She said one of the biggest myths about healthy eating is that it is more expensive.
“When you think about the cost of a banana or an apple, it’s almost less than $1 for each of those. And when you think about the cost of a bag of chips or a candy bar, in reality, healthier food choices typically cost less,” said Johnke.
Grocery prices have risen, but Johnke said that many nutritious products can be bought affordably or found at pantries. Canned chicken, canned tuna, canned fruits and vegetables, whole wheat products and eggs are among the most accessible healthy foods. Servings are also important to consider.
“How many servings of apples are you going to get out of that bag that costs $5, and how much is that meal, that takeout meal costing you that is a one-time deal?” said Johnke.
Johnke said that the ingredients she bought cost less than $9 and can make six meals. It took less than 10 minutes to assemble.
Ultimately, Johnke’s mission is to meet people where they are and provide practical, accessible nutrition education. Her message is clear: eating healthy isn’t a privilege but a possibility for everyone.
Johnke added that organic grocery stores don’t necessarily have more nutritious products, and that healthy foods can be bought anywhere.
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