Concerns have been made over diminishing food quality and portion size by many San Quentin residents.
Most recently, residents have noticed a decrease in food being served in the dining halls. This is not speculation, but rather the result of the new Correctional Food Manager, Warren Clark.
“The nutritional guidelines have not been followed, and they were not followed before I got here. My objective is to meet the nutritional standards,” said Clark.
Since assuming his post in September 2023, Clark made several changes to the portion sizes and amount of salt added to the food. A number of residents have criticized these changes, stating that CDCR has not been feeding them sufficiently.
Resident Jeremiah Brown said the quality of food is not as good as before Clark’s appointment. He spoke fondly about the traditional ‘Sunday Grand Slam breakfast.’
“We had hearty food portions, sausage, eggs and sometimes cheese,” Brown said. “We no longer get any of that.”
Several residents expressed their dismay over the removal of pancakes and other popular food items.
“They wanted the pancakes they had before I got here. What I discovered was the size of the pancakes were twice the size of what they should be,” Clark said. “We are spending twice the amount of what we should be. That is not financially responsible.”
Clark admitted that he has reduced food quantities in an effort to adhere to ‘healthy’ nutritional guidelines, and to be more fiscally responsible.
He also attributed the lack of salt as the result of standardized menus set forth by the state’s food management system.
SQ resident Jamal “Journal” Davis challenged these claims and questioned Clark’s idea of health.
“I know that they changed the rules and they are trying to do things more healthy. But the last time I checked, starvation is not a sign of health,” Davis said. “I eat before dinner just to feel fulfilled.”
“I’ve worked in the chow hall for five years and I saw the food go from bad to worse…I would rather cook my own food,” said SQ resident Eugene Hall.
Hall used to look forward to chow hall meals but now says the portions are not enough for a grown man.
Clark noted that the state adopted ‘heart-healthy’ guidelines in response to litigation from incarcerated individuals. He added that though he has made these changes, there is much in store for San Quentin’s food program in the future.
“I am looking forward to the possibilities that I can do with the food here at San Quentin. I want the entire population to enjoy the healthy diet that they are receiving,” he said. “I realize that I am not going to please everyone.”
