The State of Prison Food in New England

The poor quality of prison food in New England is the result systemic forces such as exacerbating health disparities and socioeconomic inequalities within incarcerated populations. Existing policies often prioritize cost-cutting over nutritional adequacy, leading to widespread diet-related illnesses and foodborne illnesses in correctional facilities. State policymakers should implement procurement policies that emphasize locally sourced, sustainable, and nutritious food, while addressing the exploitative labor practices in prison food systems.