(P02-091-25) Examining the Association Between Food and Nutrition Insecurity and Diet Quality in Correctional Officers In and Around New Jersey

Objectives: This study investigates the relationship between food and nutrition security and the diet quality of correctional officers in and around New Jersey.

Methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted from May to July 2023. Food security was assessed using the USDA's 6-item short-form food security module, while diet quality was measured using the PrimeScreen questionnaire [score range 0-42, with higher scores indicating better diet quality]. Nutrition security was measured using the one-item screener developed by the Center for Nutrition & Health Impact.

Results: The sample consisted of 227 participants, 63% male, 53% White, and 80% non-Hispanic. Most were full-time employees (76%) working in county jails (64%) or prison facilities (48%). Food insecurity affected 26% of participants, 31% had low nutrition security and mean diet quality score was 21.5±6. Participants experiencing food insecurity had significantly poorer diet quality (mean ± SD: 20 ± 6) than food-secure participants (22 ± 6) (p = 0.006). Likewise, those with low nutrition security had lower diet quality scores (19 ± 5) compared to those with high nutrition security (22 ± 6).

Conclusions: In conclusion, this study demonstrates a significant association between food and nutrition insecurity and diet quality among correctional officers in and around New Jersey. These findings underscore the need for interventions that improve access to affordable, nutritious food and address broader food security issues within this workforce.

Funding Sources: This study was supported by the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center.