[Image: Needpix]
The Department of Corrections defended its new “budget-friendly” meal plans for inmates in its care, saying that the menu was put together by nutritionists.
The new cost-cutting meal plan features meat, pap, eggs, and soya and is expected to save the department R200 million annually. Despite sounding unappetising, prison bosses say the meals will ensure those in the tjookie still get all the essential proteins, carbs, fruits, and vegetables.
Department spokesperson Singabhako Nxumalo explained that the changes aren’t just about cutting costs but also about variety.
He also added that the money saved will be redirected towards inmate self-sufficiency projects, meaning prisoners will continue producing their own food, making furniture, and engaging in trades.
As can be expected, prisoners aren’t thrilled about their new menu and many have already lodged complaints. News24 reports that prisoners claim they are being treated “like a dog that has to eat leftovers”.
The menu alternates daily and has different daily protein options, such as 184 grams of pork and beef, 150 grams of giblets, and 200 grams of chicken. But inmates claim the food served was often of poor quality, that beans are often half-cooked and portions of uphuthu, chicken, and beef are too small.
“There is no gravy and no soup… the meal is dry, the cabbage is also half-cooked”, one inmate said.
“It is not even enough when they add sugar to the porridge for breakfast. It is a disgrace; not even dogs will eat the food they give us here.”
Diabetic inmates are also crying foul with claims that their meals are compromising their health and infringing upon their constitutional rights to adequate nutrition.
“It’s an infringement of inmates’ constitutional rights to adequate nutrition, and it’s the responsibility of DCS that inmates are provided with adequate nutritious food.”
“We are not happy with their new meal plan. Most inmates rely on this meal as some do not have a family support system. We are expected to comply even though some get allergic reactions from the beans and soya mince.”
SA Prisoners’ Organisation for Human Rights spokesperson Golden Miles Bhudu claims that the food is so bad that many prisoners refuse to eat.
News24 attempted to contact DCS spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo, who only pointed to the department’s statement of 27 February.
“DCS remains committed to maintaining a balanced and nutritious meal plan that supports the well-being of those in our care. The revised plan has been developed in consultation with nutrition experts to ensure compliance with health standards while maintaining operational efficiency.”
“The department firmly rejects any false reports suggesting food shortages or the unavailability of essential meal items. These claims are misleading and do not reflect the reality within our correctional facilities.”
This comes on the back of a recent report that claimed the DCS has also not been feeding the animals at its 21 agricultural correctional centres properly. According to this report there were critical food shortages for the animals, which include pigs, dairy cattle, poultry, horses used by the mounted units, as well as the dogs in the department’s canine units.
The department however refutes claims of neglect, saying “The department remains committed to upholding humane and ethical treatment standards for all animals under its care. It is important to emphasise that budgetary constraints do not equate to neglect.”
The food fight is likely far from over, but online reaction to the new menu suggests that the prisoners should take what they get. You do the crime, you get the k*k menu.
[Source: EastCoast Radio & News24]
