INTERFACES OF NUTRITION AND NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCY IN THE PENITENTIARY SYSTEM

Abstract

The Brazilian prison system faces longstanding challenges related to overcrowding, poor hygiene conditions, and limited access to health and nutrition services. Studies on the nutritional reality in prisons show that the planning and implementation of diets do not always follow technical or nutritional criteria established by public health authorities. Meals often lack diversity, quality, and food safety, reflecting deficiencies in essential micronutrients and an excess of ultra-processed foods. General Objective: To analyze the interfaces between diet and nutritional deficiencies in the prison system. Methodology: The study design adopted was a descriptive literature review. The bibliographic search was conducted in databases recognized for scientific production in the field, including SciELO, PubMed, Google Scholar, LILACS, and other relevant platforms, aiming to broaden the scope and representativeness of the sources consulted. Results and Discussion: Based on the selected studies, it was possible to identify relevant aspects related to food in the prison system, ranging from the characterization of dietary patterns to the conditions of food provision and their impact on the nutritional status of incarcerated individuals. The evidence presented in Tables 1, 2, and 3 consistently indicates qualitative and quantitative inadequacies in the food provided, as well as weaknesses in the implementation of public policies aimed at food and nutrition security in this context. Final Considerations: Based on the analysis, it is observed that food provision in the Brazilian prison system presents significant weaknesses that compromise the health and nutritional status of the incarcerated population.