by Trisa Tedrow
I thought an introduction would be the most appropriate for my first “On Your Table” article. After all, it is polite to start with introductions and my Norwegian grandmothers would be very disappointed in me if I didn’t have good (On Your) Table manners!
My name is Trisa Tedrow, and I am a mixed animal veterinarian in rural North Dakota. I was raised on a farm very close to where I now practice, attended our small town K-12 school, went to undergrad at NDSCS and NDSU, and finished my studies at the Kansas State College of Veterinary Medicine. From junior high school to undergrad my after school employment ran the gamut from waitressing to genomic research for the USDA.
Over my academic career I acquired a keen admiration for critical thinking, the scientific process, hard workers, honest data, and a tidy laboratory. I love exploring grocery stores, dining with friends, and occasionally stepping out of my comfort zone when it comes to food. My enjoyment of these experiences is often magnified because of my understanding of where my food comes from; though the efforts of advertising and propaganda to muddy the waters of what makes a tasty, ethical meal can be a source of frustration.
I believe these two things very strongly: that knowledge is power, and that what you chose to eat is an intensely personal and private decision. I will never tell you what you should eat, but I will be honest with you about what I eat. I have no qualms about including GMOs, milk from cows treated with rBST, beef from feeder cattle that have been administered hormone implants or treated with antibiotics, and traditionally raised fruits and vegetables in my diet.
I can appreciate locally grown, niche market items for their uniqueness and quality, while maintaining a constant appreciation and sense of wonder for how amazingly affordable, safe, diverse, and wholesome the products are that line even the smallest of rural grocery store shelves. I hope to use my articles to create a similar sense of comfort and appreciation for this gift of abundant food that we enjoy in America thanks to the joint efforts of our farmers, ranchers, scientists, veterinarians, legislators, and armed services.
Trisa is the District 4 representative on the NDFB Board of Directors.