SECTION 380.9113. Food and Nutrition

(a) This rule establishes standards to ensure that the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD) provides food services to meet the basic nutrition needs of its youth.

(b) Food services departments in TJJD facilities may be operated by TJJD employees or through contracts with private organizations.

(c) Facility food service departments shall meet applicable state and local sanitation and health standards.

(d) Facilities shall comply with participation requirements for the United States Department of Agriculture National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program.

(e) The most recent Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) published by the National Research Council shall be utilized in planning menus.

(f) Standardized menus will be developed or revised as needed and reviewed annually for institutions and for halfway houses by a dietitian.

(1) A single menu for staff and youth will be followed.

(2) Medical diets shall be provided as prescribed by appropriate medical or dental personnel.

(3) Religious diets will be provided when a youth's religious beliefs require adherence to religious dietary laws consistent with §380.9121 of this title.

(g) Food will be served in an appetizing and attractive manner.

(h) Youth shall be served three meals and a snack(s) daily; at least two of the meals are hot.

(i) The scheduled start time between the evening meal and the following day's breakfast meal shall not exceed 14 hours.

(j) On-duty correctional care staff shall supervise youth during meals.

(k) Meals and snacks shall not be used as disciplinary measures.

(l) Facilities will implement a system for determining and responding within reason to youth food preferences.

Source Note: The provisions of this §380.9113 adopted to be effective December 31, 1996, 21 TexReg 12183; amended to be effective August 28, 1998, 23 TexReg 8186; transferred effective June 4, 2012, as published in the Texas Register June 22, 2012, 37 TexReg 4639; amended to be effective April 15, 2015, 40 TexReg 1976