For the nomadic peoples of the Arctic, consuming organ meats has long been essential for survival, especially given the harsh environmental conditions. The region offers limited plant life, primarily moss and lichen, which means that the available edible plants are not sufficient to meet nutritional needs. Consequently, organ meats are incredibly rich in vitamins and nutrients, providing a critical resource for these communities.

In the context of Arctic health education, organ meats are classified alongside traditional fruits and vegetables. For instance, educational materials emphasize that a serving of the Fruits and Vegetables Group can be equated to 60 to 90 grams of organ meats, highlighting their importance in the diet. This classification underlines the reliance on organ meats to ensure a balanced intake of essential nutrients in a challenging environment, as noted in Mary Roach's book, "Gulp: Adventures on the Alimentary Canal."