In the Western Cape, prisons have changed their meal plans, cutting down on meat and fish to save money and offer more plantbased foods like beans and soya. This new menu is meant to help the government save over R200 million each year and support programs to help inmates learn new skills. However, many prisoners are unhappy, calling the food bland and insufficient, with some even choosing to skip meals. While the Department of Correctional Services insists the meals meet basic needs, advocates worry about the health impacts of poor nutrition. This situation highlights a bigger debate about how to treat inmates fairly while balancing costs and promoting rehabilitation.
