There are limited studies on
the adequacy of prisoner diet and food practices, yet understanding these are
important to inform food provision and assure duty of care for this group.
The
aim of this study was to assess the dietary intakes of prisoners to inform food
and nutrition policy in this setting. This research used a cross-sectional
design with convenience sampling in a 945-bed male high-secure prison. Multiple
methods were used to assess food available at the group level, including
verification of food portion, quality and practices. A pictorial tool supported
the diet history method. Of 276 eligible prisoners, 120 dietary interviews were
conducted and verified against prison records, with 106 deemed plausible.
The
results showed the planned food to be nutritionally adequate, with the
exception of vitamin D for older males and long-chain fatty acids, with Na
above upper limits. The Australian dietary targets for chronic disease risk
were not achieved. High energy intakes were reported with median 13·8 (se 0·3)
MJ. Probability estimates of inadequate intake varied with age groups: Mg 8 %
(>30 years), 2·9 % (70 years), 1·5 % (<70 years); folate 3·5 %; Zn and I
2·7 %; and vitamin A 2·3 %. Nutrient intakes were greatly impacted by
self-funded snacks.
Results suggest the intakes to be nutritionally favourable
when compared with males in the community. This study highlights the complexity
of food provision in the prison environment and also poses questions for
population-level dietary guidance in delivering appropriate nutrients within
energy limits.
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By:
- 1School of Human Movement and Nutrition Sciences, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences,The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia.
- Br J Nutr. 2016 Feb 22:1-10.
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