Researchers in the world of nutrition are increasingly looking at models that elevate certain foods and meals as a form of medicine.
More than 15 states have set up formal initiatives known as Food is Medicine networks. They often involve coordination with doctor’s offices and other health care delivery systems to prescribe healthy meals and groceries, helping eligible patients better manage their chronic illnesses.
Assistant Professor and South Dakota State University Extension Nutrition and Health Specialist Gemma Bastian says all too often, potential Food is Medicine partners are working on their own.
“You have different organizations, sometimes all working on answering the same questions, at the same time. So, rather than utilizing everybody’s time and energy to solving the same problem multiple times, you can come together and work on a collective solution.”
Bastian says by getting more partners on board, a widespread network can help close preventative care gaps in all geographic settings, including remote areas.
“So, this is really an opportunity to expand health care access, especially when we think about rural areas where there might not always be a physician.”
Bastian says there’s been limited use of Food is Medicine models in South Dakota, including Extension’s Dakota Food R-X pilot program. She says they want to attract health care providers, farmers, retailers, public health professionals and other potential partners around the state.
Bastian and other organizers will host a virtual meeting April 9, 2026, so more people can learn about the Food is Medicine approach as partners lay out a network vision for South Dakota. People can subscribe by going to https://extension.sdstate.edu/food-medicine.
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