Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Prison Food
Jun 26, 2019
The podcast dives into the often laughable world of prison food, exposing serious consequences. It discusses nutritional rights and how improving meals could cut healthcare costs. High obesity rates among inmates reveal shocking food quality, worsened by outsourcing. The show highlights dietary restrictions and financial struggles in feeding a large incarcerated population. With a mix of humor and critique, it addresses the dire need for better nutrition, illustrating the stark contrast between prison meals and healthier alternatives.
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Prison Food's Real Cost
- Prison food is often a punchline, but its quality has serious consequences for incarcerated people and taxpayers.
- Poor nutrition leads to chronic illnesses, increasing healthcare costs inside and outside of prison.
Prison Food Economics and Outsourcing
- Data on national prison food spending is scarce, varying by state and jurisdiction, but it's significantly less than the average American's food expenditure.
- Outsourcing food preparation to companies like Aramark has reduced freshness and quality, eliminating prison kitchens.
Dietary Restrictions in Prison
- Many prisoners experience dietary restrictions due to health or religious reasons, yet their needs are often unmet, leading to inadequate nutrition and health issues.
- Taking gluten off a tray without offering alternatives is a common, problematic practice.