Under the directions of the Director General Punjab Food Authority, Additional Director Operations Faisalabad Division, and Deputy Director Operations Faisalabad, the Nutrition Section organized a Nutrition Awareness Seminar and Counseling Camp at District Jail Faisalabad. Approximately 97 female inmates attended the session, which aimed to highlight the link between nutrition and mental health among incarcerated women. Participants also completed a questionnaire regarding the quality of meals provided in the prison.
The seminar addressed critical topics, including the neglected nutritional needs of incarcerated women, the impact of poor nutrition on mental health, and the consequences of irregular meal timing and poor quality food. Discussions emphasized how high calorie but nutrient poor diets can result in both obesity and micronutrient deficiencies and how insufficient fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats can worsen conditions like PCOS and insulin resistance. Participants were also informed about emotional eating triggered by stress, the challenges of restricted autonomy over food choices, and the importance of nutrition education to empower informed decision making whenever possible.
Policy recommendations were shared to improve inmate health, including the inclusion of qualified dietitians in prison systems, the development of meal plans addressing both physical and mental health needs, and the integration of nutrition focused rehabilitation programs. Brochures on nutrition awareness were distributed to reinforce the key messages of the seminar. The Superintendent of District Jail Faisalabad formally appreciated the initiative, acknowledging Punjab Food Authority’s efforts to enhance the nutritional and mental well being of female inmates.
