New Hot Meal Program Launched for Inmates at Men’s Central Jail by LASD Food Services
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Introduces New Hot Meal Program at Men’s Central Jail
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) has launched a new hot meal program at the Men’s Central Jail, which officials are calling “the most significant improvement in inmate feeding in decades.” The initiative, which began this month, aims to enhance the dining experience for inmates while maintaining nutritional standards.
The program has already demonstrated a notable impact, with food waste reportedly reduced by up to 15%. This improvement is credited to better control over meal preparation and precise portioning, as stated by LASD.
Inmates have responded positively to the program, appreciating the hot, sealed meals and the consistency of their daily servings. "The program also provides valuable vocational opportunities for inmate workers, who assist with meal preparation and learn culinary skills under the guidance of professional cooks. This provides meaningful work experience and contributes to rehabilitation efforts,” LASD noted.
The new Cook-Chill system allows the department to prepare meals on-site, ensuring freshness and uniformity while also promoting sustainability. The initiative commenced on two floors in September and was expanded to the entire facility in early November.
According to LASD, the meals are designed to meet recommended daily standards for calories, protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients, thanks to the expertise of a team of dieticians and dietetic advisors. The preparation process includes cooking the main dish, rapidly cooling it, and then portioning it into biodegradable containers, which are sealed and frozen. The meals are later reheated and delivered using temperature-regulated food transport carts.
“We take all inmate complaints and the input from our oversight entities very seriously,” said Assistant Sheriff Paula Tokar. “Through our conversations, we learned that the design of Men’s Central Jail caused delays in delivering food to the inmate population at the optimum temperature. To remedy the issue, we requested funding for the Cook Chill program at Men’s Central Jail. Based on the exceedingly positive feedback, we intend to expand the program to the entire jail system. It is our goal to improve the conditions of confinement for our population whenever possible.”
LASD plans to extend the program to the Century Regional Detention Facility in the near future, followed by the Twin Towers Correctional Facility next year.
As part of the November holiday menu, inmates will receive roasted turkey, candied yams, green beans, cranberry sauce, a green salad, dressing, a dinner roll, a pumpkin muffin, and 1% chocolate milk.
The LASD Food Services Unit remains committed to continuous improvement and sustainability, ensuring that food operations across the department meet high standards of quality, efficiency, and care.
