There are plenty of options and the focus is on nutrition. The Sheriff's Food Services Division has been serving Meatless Friday and low-salt meals to inmates at all seven county jails.
Working with a chef, Food Services replaced salt with herbs and spices in soups, lunch and dinner recipes. A meatless item is also served every Friday.
Dr. Alfred Joshua, Sheriff's Department Chief Medical Officer says the goal is to help prevent high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. It could also lead to a reduction in healthcare costs associated with these health issues.
By reducing meat consumption and providing inmates with low-salt foods, the Sheriff's Department hopes to establish healthy eating habits among inmates so it may continue when they are released.
Changes to the menu were implemented in July 2015 while staying within county budget. Sheriff's Food Services also provides meals to three County Probation Facilities for juveniles. The production facility provides 19,000 meals daily.
