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This booklet has been produced by Guide VPSG and The Vegan Society for Vegan Published September 2012 Prisoners

VPSG P.O. Box 194 Enfield, Middx, EN1 4YL Tel: 020 8363 5729 Website: www.vpsg.info Email: [email protected] Contents INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION Introduction, 1 Definition of a Vegan, 1 The aim of this booklet is to provide NOMS Guidelines on the Care of Vegans, 2 vegan prisoners with practical Basic beliefs, 2 information to help ensure that their , 2 vegan requirements are provided, e.g. Purchase of Supplements and Remedies, 2 food, toiletries, shoes etc. Dress, 2 Toiletries, 2 In addition, to give guidance on how to Work, 2 gain access to vegan supplements or Recommended Practices in Catering, 3 herbal remedies. Storage and Service, 3 There are various systems in place to Weekly Vegan Provisions, 3 provide equal opportunities to vegan Basic Guidelines for a Vegan Diet, 4 prisoners, but these can sometimes be Rainbow /, 4 difficult to navigate without the relevant Selenium, 4 information. Please keep this booklet safe during your sentence as the Essential Fatty Acids, 4 information might prove useful. Magnesium and Calcium, 4 Whole Grain vs Refined, 4 Definition of a Vegan Hydrogenated Fat, 4 Seeds, 4 may be defined as a way B12/Iodine, 4 of living which seeks to exclude, as far D, 4 as possible and practicable, all forms of Textured Protein, 4 exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals Salt Reduction, 4 for food, clothing or any other purpose. 5-A-Day, 5 In dietary terms it refers to the Fruit, 5 practice of dispensing with all animal Rainbow Foods, 5 products, including meat, fish, poultry, Green, 5 eggs, animal milks, honey, and their Orange, 5 derivatives. In terms of clothing, the Orange/Yellow, 5 wearing of such items as leather, Red, 5 suede, silk and wool, etc would not be Red/Purple, 5 acceptable to vegans. Yellow/Green, 5 White/Green, 5 Abhorrence of the cruel practices Protein Mainstays in the Vegan Diet, 6 inherent in an agricultural system Beans and Lentils, 6 based on the abuse of animals is Grains, 7 probably the single most common The Importance of Nuts and Seeds in the Vegan Diet, 7 reason for the adoption of veganism, Nutritional Requirements for a Vegan Diet, 8 but many people are also drawn to it for Keeping a Record of Your Diet, 9 health, ecological, resource, spiritual Animal Ingredients, 10 and other reasons. Animal and Vegan Ingredients, 10 The above information was provided by Toiletries, 11 the Vegan Society, which was formed Prison Retail (Canteen), 11 in 1944. Footwear, 12 Resolving Grievances, 12 The Vegan Society Take Steps to Stop Grievances Occurring, 12 Donald Watson House Details of the Grievance/Complaint, 12 21 Hylton Street Internal Resolution, 12 Hockley Request/Complaint Forms, 12 Birmingham External Resolution, 12 B18 6HJ Using the Vegan Society/VPSG, 13 Tel: 0121 523 1730 Frequently Asked Questions, 14 1 NOMSNOMS GUIDELINESGUIDELINES ONON THETHE CARECARE OFOF VEGANSVEGANS RECOMMENDEDRECOMMENDED PRACTICESPRACTICES ININ CATERINGCATERING

Basic Beliefs Purchase of Supplements All work surfaces and chopping boards, utensils and all other kitchen equipment and and Herbal Remedies facilities should be either kept separate from those used for non-vegan food preparation, or 1.1 Veganism is not a religion but a cleaned thoroughly before vegan food preparation. philosophy whereby the use of an animal 3.1 Herbal remedies and dietary for food, clothing or any other purpose is supplements of vegetable or synthetic STORAGE AND MEAL SERVICE regarded as wholly unacceptable. origin such as iodine (e.g. kelp tablets) STORAGE AND MEAL SERVICE 1.2 The majority of vegans reject may be requested through the prison Note: It is good practice that for entirely anything which has its origins shop or via mail order. A vegan choice should be available at vegans are served in single portion trays in the exploitation, suffering or death of every meal and indicated as such. (i.e. tin foil or polystyrene and marked any creature. An individual may lead a Vegan products should be stored in Dress as such). A suitable diet stove should be vegan lifestyle for one particular reason separate containers where facilities allow. used for the preparation of vegan dishes. or for a combination of reasons, and 4.1 Clothing and footwear must be If this is not possible, then products may this may result in some vegans being from non-animal (e.g. plant or synthetic) be stored within the same facility in an Hot Cupboards and Hot Trolleys: stricter than others in what they deem sources. The wearing of all animal fibres, isolated designated area on a higher, Vegan dishes should be placed in as acceptable and unacceptable. Vegan skins and materials including wool, silk, separated shelf clearly labelled for vegan a separate compartment wherever beliefs are followed by individuals within leather and suede will not be accepted by products. Designated containers should possible, and in any event should be various faiths to varying degrees, and by vegan prisoners. be used. It is good practice that products covered and marked ‘vegan’. Vegan individuals of no faith. are issued by persons who are not options should be stacked higher than the non-vegan options to avoid cross 1.3 Most vegans will not involve handling animal products. Toiletries contamination. Separate utensils must be themselves, directly or indirectly, in Separation of vegan food during used for preparation and serving. anything whereby their lifestyle and 5.1 Toiletries containing any animal preparation and service is a key Establishments can purchase frozen beliefs are compromised or violated, derived ingredients and where either requirement, thereby avoiding cross oven-ready, prepared vegan meals either for themselves or for others. the product or its ingredients have been contamination with non-vegan products. available nationally from the contracted Throughout their lives, vegans will seek tested on animals are totally unacceptable Vegan products should be clearly frozen food supplier. Additional funds are to sever all links with, and dependencies and are not permitted. Therefore, labelled to avoid error. not available for this purpose. upon, the use or abuse of animals. whenever toiletries suitable for vegans are required, establishments should Diet make arrangements for such items to be stocked by prison retail, or ordered in as WEEKLYWEEKLY VEGANVEGAN PROVISIONSPROVISIONS (VEGAN(VEGAN PACK)PACK) 2.1 A Vegan diet is based on , necessary. vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, pulses 5.2 Vegans should not be expected to It is recommended that the following are provided each week: and grains. The diet omits all animal use inappropriate toiletries. products including meat, poultry, fish, sea 5.3 Vegans should not be asked to creatures, invertebrates, eggs, animal handle or use substances that have • 3½ litres fortified soya milk (in order to consume sufficient milks, honey and royal jelly. Vegans involved animal testing of the product or calcium and B12) should not be required to handle such its ingredients. foodstuffs. Food/drink containing or made • 200g (7 oz) mixed nuts and seeds, consisting of 7 brazil nuts, with any of the above, or their derivatives, plus walnuts, sunflower and pumpkin seeds (in order to provide should not be served. The Vegan Society Work can provide helpful information on a selenium and omega-3) 6.1 Most vegan prisoners will not wish range of issues including how nutrients to be involved in any way in the care of • 250g (9 oz) mixed (raisins, dates, prunes etc) are obtained from a vegan diet. animals on prison farms. Vegans usually 2.2 Human nutrient requirements, with choose not to engage in any sport, hobby, • 250g (9 oz) oats (for use as a muesli base) the exception of B12, can be met by a diet or trade that directly or indirectly causes • 14-21 pieces of fruit, including 3 bananas/week and at least composed entirely of plant foods, but to stress, distress, suffering, or death to any do so it must be carefully planned using creature. one citrus fruit/day a wide selection of foods. Fortified yeast 6.2 Vegans should not be expected to extract is a good source of some of the work in a butchery or handle anything of B-, including B12, as is fortified animal origin or content. soya milk.

2 3 BASICBASIC GUIDELINESGUIDELINES FORFOR AA VEGANVEGAN DIETDIET 5-A-DAY5-A-DAY

To maintain a healthy vegan diet at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables are required Rainbow Fruit/Vegetables Seeds each day. Potatoes are a starchy food and so do not count. Fruit and vegetables provide some of the vitamins and minerals needed for good health and they are also high fibre The 5-a-day should include plenty of Seeds are a concentrated source of nutrients foods. To ensure maximum absorption of vitamins, we recommend that some vegetables strongly coloured fruit/vegetables such as including calcium, iron, , , are eaten raw, as heating destroys some vitamins. green leafy vegetables, red/green peppers, copper, phosphorus and magnesium. broccoli, beetroot, butternut squash, carrots, It is recommended that seeds, such as Fruit sweet potatoes, apples, oranges and sunflower, sesame or pumpkin, are included kiwifruit. in the diet on a regular basis. Fresh fruit, dried fruit and fruit tinned in natural juices all contribute to the 5 a day total. A portion of fresh or tinned fruit would be 80g (3 oz). As dried fruit provides a more concentrated source of nutrients, 30g (1 oz) is sufficient for a portion. Selenium B12/Iodine

It is important to include a brazil nut or 100g Consuming the recommended amounts of RAINBOWRAINBOW FOODSFOODS (3½ oz) sunflower seeds a day to ensure a fortified soya milk will contribute towards good selenium intake. vitamin B12 intake. Eating a wide variety of brightly coloured fruit and vegetables will ensure excellent sources Iodine is required for proper functioning of of folate, , carotenoids, and many other protective substances that contribute to Essential Fatty Acids the thyroid gland. As it is impracticable for good health. this to be provided in the prison diet, an While the less colourful fruits and vegetables, such as bananas and potatoes do not have It is essential to include a good source of iodine supplement is recommended. (See the same benefits, they are still useful sources of potassium and other nutrients. However omega-3 (e.g. 6 walnut halves daily). details on page 9). they are no substitute for brightly coloured fruits and vegetables such as oranges or spring greens. Magnesium and Calcium It is important that brightly coloured fruits and vegetables be a major part of the diet. Eating several different colours maximises health benefits. More information below: Good sources of magnesium are bananas, If sun exposure is limited, a supplement of prunes, almonds and cashew nuts. Vitamin D2 should be considered (see page Green Red 9). Some of the daily requirements may be Good sources of calcium are fortified soya Green leafy vegetables and broccoli have Tomatoes are a good source of lycopene. milk, spring greens, , broccoli, almonds, obtained from fortified soya milk and fortified margarines (unhydrogenated if possible). special characteristics, in particular high This antioxidant is better absorbed from sesame seeds and tahini. Consuming levels of which may improve processed tomato products and cooked 2x250ml of fortified soya milk daily should Note: D3 is not vegan. bone health. Other green vegetables rather than raw tomatoes. help towards the daily calcium requirements include brussels sprouts, cabbage and of 700mg/day. Textured Vegetable Protein kale. Red / Purple Whole Grain vs Refined Orange Foods include: aubergine, blackberries, It is important to limit the use of TVP (soya blueberries, deep purple grapes, purple mince) to two or three times per week. Other Carrots are an excellent source of beta- plums, red apples, red cabbage, red Limit the use of refined grains. Over sources of protein are nuts, seeds, beans, carotene. This is better absorbed if the onions and strawberries. processed food should be used sparingly, lentils, peas, and peanuts. carrots are cooked or juiced with a little as it will have lost much of its nutritional oil. Other orange fruits and vegetables Yellow / Green content. Salt Reduction include butternut squash, sweet potatoes, apricots and mangos. Foods include: , courgettes, green Hydrogenated Fat beans, green and yellow peppers, kale, Limit the use of salt or use a low sodium Orange / Yellow kiwifruit, leeks, oranges, peas, romaine alternative. To counterbalance the high salt lettuce, spinach, spring greens and sweet It is recommended that products stating ‘no content of processed foods endeavour to eat These cousins to the orange family are corn. hydrogenated fat’ should be eaten where foods containing potassium such as green rich in beta-cryptoxanthin, an antioxidant possible. leafy and root vegetables, fresh fruit, cereals understood to protect cells from damage. White / Green and nuts. Good sources include: carrots, mangos, oranges, peaches and tangerines. Foods include: garlic, onions, celery, leeks and mushrooms. 4 5 PROTEINPROTEIN MAINSTAYSMAINSTAYS ININ THETHE VEGANVEGAN DIETDIET Grains All varieties of beans and lentils are rich sources of protein, fibre, carbohydrates and the essential . Most grains are deficient in lysine, which is why the combination Barley: Contains dietary Oats: Contain Quinoa: Good source of ‘rice and beans’ makes a complete protein. Many beans also contain folic acid. Grains fibre, , selenium, carbohydrates, dietary protein, calcium, dietary provide important sources of dietary fibre, plant protein and phytochemicals. They also phosphorus, copper, and fibre, thiamin (vitamin B1), fibre, folate (vitamin B9), fortify the vegan diet with important vitamins and minerals. the amino acid . potassium and vitamin phosphorus, and is high in B6. Whole oats contain magnesium, manganese, Whole Grain vs Refined: A good number of nutrients and much of the fibre is lost from Brown rice: Contains magnesium, potassium, copper, B vitamins, grains when they are refined. Therefore we recommend that a percentage of grains are calcium, iron, zinc, antioxidants and iron. eaten unrefined. vitamins B1 and B6, protein, zinc, iron, fibre, phosphorus, sodium, phosphorus, magnesium riboflavin (vitamin B2) and Beans and Lentils and manganese. niacin (vitamin B3). Aduki beans: Contain Green lentils: Good Red kidney beans: iron, potassium, source of folate (vitamin B9), These beans must be THE IMPORTANCE OF NUTS AND SEEDS IN THE VEGAN DIET manganese, magnesium, thiamin (vitamin B1), iron, boiled vigorously for at THE IMPORTANCE OF NUTS AND SEEDS IN THE VEGAN DIET zinc, copper and thiamin copper, phosphorus, zinc, least ten minutes to remove Nuts and seeds offer an abundance of nutritional benefits and are an important part of a (vitamin B1). and manganese. dangerous toxins before healthy vegan diet as they are a good source of vitamins, minerals, protein, essential fatty reducing heat for the rest of acids and fibre. The daily requirement is one to two servings. A recommended serving Black-eyed beans: Green split peas: Good the cooking period. Good would be 30g (1oz). Good source of magnesium, source of thiamin (vitamin source of folate (vitamin iron and folate (vitamin B9). B1), folate (vitamin B9), B9), manganese, thiamin phosphorus, copper, zinc (vitamin B1), phosphorus, Almonds Hazelnuts Broad beans: Good and manganese. Lower in iron, copper, magnesium, source of beta-carotene protein than other legumes. potassium, vitamin K, Contain riboflavin, copper, magnesium, Good source of omega-3 and vitamin E, (), vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin E, as well as zinc B group vitamins, vitamin A, magnesium, vitamin B6, pantothenic acid, potassium, magnesium, Haricot beans: A very and calcium. iron and zinc. riboflavin (vitamin B2) and copper, phosphorus, zinc, good source of phosphorus, niacin (vitamin B3). thiamine (vitamin B1), magnesium, iron and Brazils Pumpkin Seeds riboflavin (vitamin B2) and copper and a good source Red lentils: Good source 1 iron. of thiamine (vitamin B ). of folate (vitamin B9), Good source of selenium (one large Excellent source of beta-carotene thiamin (vitamin B1), iron, brazil nut per day should fulfil the daily (a precursor to vitamin A), selenium, Brown lentils: Good Mung beans: High in requirement). magnesium, iron and zinc. source of folate (vitamin copper, phosphorus, zinc, dietary fibre, vitamin C, and manganese. B9), thiamin (vitamin B1), vitamin K, riboflavin (vitamin Cashews iron, copper, phosphorus, B2), folate (vitamin B9), Tofu: Tofu is made from Sesame Seeds zinc, and manganese. copper, manganese, thiamin soya beans and brands Contain copper, magnesium, phosphorus, Good source of vitamin B, zinc, (vitamin B1), niacin (vitamin manufactured using calcium Butter/lima beans: and tryptophan (one of the essential magnesium and calcium. Tahini or B3), vitamin B6, pantothenic chloride are a good source Excellent source of iron, amino acids that the body uses to sesame butter is a useful form. acid, iron, magnesium, of calcium. It also contains potassium, and folate synthesize the proteins it needs). potassium and phosphorus. iron, zinc, phosphorus, (vitamin B9). Sunflower Seeds potassium, sodium and Peanuts Flaxseeds (linseed) Cannellini beans: An : Peanuts are a vitamins B and E. Are the richest seed source of vitamin legume, not a nut. They excellent source of the This highly nutritious seed is best known E and an excellent source of vitamin B, are a good protein source Textured vegetable trace mineral , for the high levels of omega-3. It is also a copper and magnesium. and also contain vitamin protein (TVP): Good the essential amino good source of magnesium, phosphorus, E, B group vitamins, source of iron and acid tryptophan, folate, copper and iron. folate (vitamin B9), magnesium. Walnuts manganese and iron. Linseeds are best ground to ensure that copper, phosphorus and Yellow split peas: Good optimum is received from the Walnuts supply copper and manganese Chick peas magnesium. Peanut butter : Good source of folate (vitamin B9), seed. and are full of linolenic acid, which can be source of iron, selenium, is a nutritious and versatile converted to omega-3 fatty acids in the form. thiamin (vitamin B1), iron, zinc, folate (vitamin B9), copper, phosphorus, zinc, body. manganese and some and manganese. calcium and vitamin C. 6 7 NUTRITIONALNUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTSREQUIREMENTS FORFOR AA VEGANVEGAN DIETDIET KEEPINGKEEPING AA RECORDRECORD OFOF YOURYOUR DIETDIET

An accurate record means you have the Daily amount1 What It Provides Suggestions information to hand if you need to have Vegetables 2+, 100g (4 oz) vitamins, minerals, broccoli, kale, spring greens, a meeting with the Catering Manager to protein, fibre cabbage, spinach, carrots, peppers, tomatoes, pumpkin, butternut squash discuss your diet, or alternatively if you need the help of the Vegan Society or Fruit 3+, large pieces2 vitamins, minerals, include some citrus fruit fibre, vitamin C to VPSG to try to improve your diet. help absorb iron If at any time you feel unwell and Nuts/Seeds 1-2, 30g (1 oz) protein, oils, almonds, walnuts, cashews, believe you require additional vitamins, minerals, fibre, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin these should be requested through vitamins seeds, sesame seeds your Healthcare Department or, Oils as required for energy, oils non-hydrogenated rapeseed oil alternatively, you could request access cooking and to supplements via mail order from salad dressings Holland & Barrett (see page 11). Wholegrains 2+, 115g (4 oz) energy, protein, pasta, oats, bread, rice, maize/ and root vitamins, fibre sweetcorn, barley, millet, buckwheat, As it is important to consume an iodine vegetables bulgur wheat, potatoes, sweet supplement for the proper functioning potatoes, yams, parsnips of the thyroid gland, the following vegan Pulses 1+, 115g (4 oz) energy, protein, peas, lentils, chick peas, kidney supplement can be requested through minerals, fibre beans, butter beans, soya products the prison canteen: As a general guide food from the above groups should be eaten every day to provide a Allsports Multivitamins solid foundation for a vegan diet. Increased servings may be needed according to energy It is advisable that you keep a record Tabs with Iodine requirements. Any margarine consumed should be non-hydrogenated. Rapeseed oil is of your diet for the first few weeks (Code M108915) preferable to sunflower, safflower, soya or sesame oil since it provides a better balance of following your arrival at any prison, or at If this is not available types of fat, including omega-3 fats. anytime that you feel that your diet is not through your prison nutritionally sound (Diet Record Sheets canteen, the Vegan Society Key Nutrient Daily amount Suggestions are available from either the Vegan produce VEG1, which Society or the VPSG). Calcium 700-1200mg An adequate intake of calcium can be assured by 3½ contains iodine, vitamin B12 litres per week of fortified soya milk (containing at least Alternatively you could make your and selenium. However, 120mg/100ml) or an equivalent amount of other calcium own Diet Record Sheet by ruling up bear in mind that you would rich foods: tofu prepared with calcium sulphate (ask to see a blank sheet of paper with a row for need to obtain permission label for calcium content), green leafy vegetables, such as each day and additional columns for from the prison before you kale and spring greens, or a vegan calcium supplement. can order this supplement. Remember that calcium from spinach is poorly absorbed. breakfast/lunch/dinner and additions and comments/suggestions (see sample Vitamin B12 3micrograms+ Eat fortified foods two or three times a day to get at least 3 above). Other vegan supplements: If you are micrograms. Alternatively take a daily B12 tablet containing concerned about your vitamin C intake, at least 10micrograms B12. Keeping a Diet Record Sheet would the supplement C150 Vitamin Tabs 60’s Iodine 150-500 Iodine is important for good metabolism and thyroid enable you to keep an accurate record (Code M099896) can be requested micrograms function. Ideal intakes for adults lie between 150 and 500 of your meals and which additional vegan through the prison micrograms a day. This can be achieved by taking an iodine provisions you are issued with (see page supplement (see page 9). canteen. You can also 3). It would also record if you are being request access to vegan provided with: supplements via mail 1 Daily amounts are given as number of servings, followed by serving size. For cooked foods serving • 5 portions/daily of fruit and order from Holland & sizes are given as cooked weights. vegetables Barrett (see page 11). 2 Each piece of fruit should be around 100g (3½oz), e.g. one orange, banana or apple. For smaller • 1 portion/daily of beans or lentils fruits a serving should be sufficient to make up 100g (3½oz), e.g. 2 nectarines, or about thirty grapes.

8 9 ANIMALANIMAL INGREDIENTSINGREDIENTS TOILETRIESTOILETRIES Albumen: White part of the Guanine: Crystalline Propolis: It’s a resinous In 2004 our recommendation for the basic Residential Governor to request access egg. It’s a thickening agent material obtained from fish substance collected from prison issue toiletries to be suitable for all to a mail order from Honesty Cosmetics, that gives cosmetics the scales. In cosmetics and various plants by bees and now means that (except for the bar soap) Lumford Mill, Bakewell, Derbyshire, consistency for being applied personal care products: bath used in the construction of the toothpaste, shower gel, deodorant, DE45 1GS Tel: 01629 814888 to the skin or hair. products, cleansing products, their hives. In toothpastes, shave creme, hair and body wash and www.honestycosmetics.co.uk fragrances, hair conditioners, shampoos, deodorants, Beeswax (E901): Obtained shampoo are now suitable for vegans. If from the honeycomb of bees. lipsticks, nail products, supplements. shampoos. in doubt an up-dated list can be obtained In lipsticks and many other Royal Jelly: Secretion of the from either the Vegan Society or the Honey: Bees are farmed and throat glands of the honeybee cosmetics, especially face VPSG. creams, lotions, mascaras, manipulated, and the honey workers that is fed to the larvae If however, you arrive at a prison that does eye creams and shadows, they produce for themselves in a colony and to all queens’ not provide vegan toiletries as the prison makeup bases, nail whiteners, is taken from them. The queen larvae. issue, we recommend that you make an etc. Also in making candles, bee is usually killed every year Shellac (E904): Obtained from Our research: Both Honesty and H&B were crayons and polishes. and a new queen introduced the bodies of the female scale application to your Diversity Manager or NOMS approved in 2009 to the colony. The queen may Carmine or Cochineal insect Tachardia lacca. Used have her wings clipped to (E120): Red pigment from as varnish, as a coating on PRISON RETAIL (CANTEEN) prevent her from flying; this is PRISON RETAIL (CANTEEN) the crushed female cochineal wood and plaster, in electrical to stop the bees carrying out insect. In cosmetics, insulation, in sealing wax. Canteen sheets are usually issued on and ask to see the full canteen listing in their natural instinct to swarm. shampoos, red apple sauce Tallow: Rendered beef or a weekly basis in order for prisoners order to discuss your requirements being and other foods. Keratin: From the ground-up sheep fat. In wax paper, to order food/toiletries and other added. horns, hoofs, feathers, quills Casein: Found in milk and all crayons, margarines, paints, requirements. The amount you are *For more info on the NPL see FAQ page 14 products associated with milk, and hair of various creatures. rubber, lubricants, candles, permitted to spend will vary from prison to such as ice cream, yogurt, In hair rinses, shampoos and soaps, shampoos, lipsticks, prison. Holland & Barrett permanent wave solutions. shaving creams. butter and cheese. Prison Retail should make every effort to Lactose: Milk Sugar. Milk of Vitamin A (retinol): Derived mail order Collagen: It’s a group of stock food, toiletries and other items for naturally occurring proteins mammals. In foods, tablets, from fish-liver oil or egg yolk. If a decision is made at your prison not cosmetics, baked goods and In shampoos, shaving soaps, which there is a demand. To ensure equal found in animals, especially opportunities, they also need to cater to add sufficient vegan items from the in the flesh and connective shampoos. creams, food supplement. for their vegan population even if they National Product List (NPL) to the local tissues of mammals. Lanolin (E913): It’s derived Vitamin D3: It is derived from are in the minority. Therefore, when you canteen sheet, in order to ensure equal Gelatine (E441): Comes from from sheep wool, a natural lanolin (from sheep) or fish. opportunities we recommend you make a fatty wax that the sheep request items which are not available on boiling animal skin and bone. Used to fortify milk, dairy request to be able to order from Holland produces to waterproof its products and breakfast cereals. your local canteen sheets, but are on the Used as an Emulsifier / Gelling & Barrett (H&B) by mail order. H&B wool coat. Used in cosmetics. full National Product List*, NOMS should Agent. Whey: From milk. In cakes, have a good selection of nuts, seeds, cookies, candies, cheese. make every effort to meet your needs where possible. However, some prisons flapjacks, tea bags and supplements. might prefer to add Honesty Cosmetics Discuss this with your Diversity Manager ANIMALANIMAL ANDAND VEGANVEGAN INGREDIENTSINGREDIENTS and Holland & Barrett to their Facilities or Residential Governor, who should be Glycerine: It can be animal, Mono- and diglycerides from petroleum. In foods, soft List. This needs to be arranged through able to arrange to have H&B added to vegetable or synthetic. It is (E471): It can be from soaps, bar soaps, permanent the prison’s Finance Department. The the Facilities list. commonly animal based, or a animal fat or plant origin. wave solutions, shampoos, help of either your Diversity Manager or Notes: Our research shows that due to blend of animal and vegetable In margarines, cake mixes, creams, nail polish, lipsticks, Residential Governor will be required. the ordering procedure, it can take three oils. confectionaries, foods, peanut liquid makeup, many other skin Once this has been arranged you can months or more to have items added to butter, non-dairy coffee preparations. Lethitine (E322): Obtained then purchase your requirements via local listings. from eggs, nerve tissue, creamer, cosmetics, etc. a cash disbursement from prisoners’ Our research further shows that mail blood, milk and soybeans Oleyl alcohol or Oleic Acid: monies. (when stated soy lecithin). In Obtained from various animal orders for either H&B or Honesty are eye creams, lipsticks, hand and vegetable fats and oils, is Note: Most prisons have a team of usually permitted every three months. creams, soaps, shampoos, usually obtained commercially prisoners who decide what is stocked on other cosmetics, candies, from inedible tallow, and the local canteen sheets, so your first port other foods and medicines. sometimes synthesized of call might be to find out who they are

10 11 This must be done within one month of sort out through the normal channels FOOTWEARFOOTWEAR receiving your final response. You can within the prison, then contact either the Prisons should provide you with vegan • Vegetarian Shoes, 12, Gardner also request that the Prison Ombudsman Vegan Society or the Vegan Prisoners footwear so we recommend you speak Street, Brighton BN1 1UP investigates your complaint if the Prison Support Group, who work closely to your Diversity Manager or Residential Tel: 01273 685685 Service does not reply to you within the six together on the care of vegans in prison. week maximum deadline. Governor when footwear is required. If it is a diet related problem, then ensure • Ethical Wares, Caegwyn, Temple Bar, Alternatively seek permission to be able to The problem should be put in writing. If that you can provide an accurate diary of Felinfach, Ceredigion, Wales SA48 order vegan footwear by mail order from you require assistance, you can speak in events (using the information in ‘Keeping 7SA Tel: 01570 471155 either: confidence to the Independent Monitoring a Record of your Diet’ on page 9). Board. The Independent Monitoring Board The Vegan Society are entirely independent of the prison RESOLVINGRESOLVING GRIEVANCESGRIEVANCES Donald Watson House establishment and have a wealth of 21 Hylton Street If you have a grievance there are various ways of trying to resolve the issue, as outlined experience on prison and prisoner issues. below. Hockley The following group also gives advice: Birmingham effect the first step in any process of B18 6HJ Take Steps to Stop The Prisoners’ Advice Service (PAS) complaint or request you may wish to Tel: 0121 523 1730 Grievances Occurring make. Your Personal Officer will also be provide legal advice and information to prisoners in England and Wales regarding the one to monitor your progress through VPSG It is recommended that you consider their rights, the application of the Prison your sentence and complete paperwork P.O. Box 194 trying to build a working relationship Rules and conditions of imprisonment. concerning such things as Home Enfield with your Wing/Landing Officers, Senior Detention Curfews (HDC). Middlesex Officers or Catering Manager and kitchen PAS (Prisoners’ Advice Service) take up EN1 4YL staff. This can make it easier to address Request/Complaint Forms prisoners’ complaints about their treatment issues arising before they reach the stage inside prison by providing free advice Note: Membership of the Vegan Society where you need to put in a complaint. These forms are to be completed when and assistance on an individual and other channels of complaint have failed. confidential basis. They take legal action is not a requirement to obtain their These (if not readily available) should be where appropriate and have solicitors on- assistance, so membership is optional. Details of any Grievance/ hand to advise. Complaint issued to you within 7 days of applying Always remember that we are unable to and a reply should be received usually PAS make representations on the following: within 3 days of completion. P.O. Box 46199 Keep an accurate note of any • Taste of food or personal food Once your reply is received, if you are not London applications, discussions and preferences. commitments in a diary. Keeping happy with the response, the next step is EC1M 4XA accurate information will help if you to fill in an appeal about your complaint Tel: 020 7253 3323 / 0845 430 8923 • Food provided which you are allergic decide to put in a complaint and/or seek and then appeal to the Governor. or intolerant to such as spices, onions, the help of outside organisations. If you try to resolve the problem Using the Vegan Society/ tomatoes etc. In such cases, we would recommend that you consider making internally, initially with a written complaint, VPSG Internal Resolution you are more likely to be eligible for legal an application to discuss this with your aid in the event that you need to take the Catering Manager who may refer you to Although vegan prisoners are free to First try to resolve the problem by complaint further. the Healthcare Department or the contact the Vegan Society or the VPSG Prison Doctor, who may be able to speaking to a relevant member of the for help/advice, you should be aware staff, i.e. Wing/Landing Officers, Senior External Resolution assist by providing a written declaration that time taken up with individual matters confirming you are unable to tolerate Officers or Catering Manager. If you wish means that these organisations run less to speak to an officer who is not usually The next step is to put a written complaint the food in question. with the Ombudsman. efficiently in their effort to forward the readily available, you may need to request overall care of vegans detained in prison. • Substitution of one meal for another a meeting. The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman It is suggested that you should first use with an acceptable alternative. If this is not successful then approach Ashley House the establishment’s channels of complaint • Timing of the issue of additional vegan your Personal Officer, Diversity Manager 2 Monck Street before calling on outside help. supplements (See page 3). or Residential Governor. They are in London SW1P 2BQ Tel: 020 7035 2876 If you have a problem you are unable to

12 13 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS My catering manager is under the impression that some vegans and FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS vegetarians eat fish?

Do I need to drink 2x250ml cartons of fortified soya milk daily? Neither vegans nor vegetarians eat fish. Fish is strictly defined as a ‘cold-blooded, water- dwelling animal’ and neither vegans nor vegetarians eat animals. However, pescetarians or Drinking 2x250ml of fortified soya milk daily should help towards your daily calcium and B12 pesco-vegetarians eat fish, but exclude meat from their diet. requirements. My Catering Manager says they can’t issue yeast extract as it could be used to How can I obtain B12 as a vegan? Do I need to consume a certain amount each make alcoholic drinks. day? Fortified yeast extract is still one of the easiest sources of B12 and upon contacting NOMS Drinking fortified soya milk will contribute to your B12 intake. Vitamin B12 is best absorbed we received the following reply… in small amounts. If you obtain it from fortified foods, you should eat two or more servings over the day, to make a total of 3 micrograms. If you are using a daily supplement, it should “We have written to Catering Managers informing them that they should continue to issue be at least 10 micrograms. If you are using a weekly supplement, you should take 2,000 yeast extract as a supplement and to continue to use the product in the preparation of micrograms. meals.” The following is a statement from the manufacturers of Marmite: My Catering Manager says quorn is vegan. “There is a commonly held belief that yeast extract can be used to produce an alcoholic No - all varieties of Quorn currently contain eggs. drink. There is no factual basis for this belief...” “Yeast extract is produced from the spent yeast, which arises as a by-product from the beer-brewing industry. The purification and How do I obtain Essential Fatty Acids from a vegan diet? extraction processes required to convert spent yeast into yeast extract are such that there is no residual alcohol in the final product. It would not be possible to distil alcohol from this Essential Fatty Acids can be obtained from nuts such as walnuts and almonds. The recom- product.” mended allowance is 30-55g (1-2 oz) daily. Note: Manufacturers of yeast extract state “it is unadvisable to rely on fortified yeast extract for all your B12 requirements due to the high salt content.” If peanuts are provided as the nut allowance, are they sufficient?

No, they are a legume, not a nut. The nut allowance should include some true nuts, such The Catering Manager stopped one of the vegan prisoners supplements as walnuts and almonds. because he purchased a non-vegan item for one of his cell mates. Can they do that? However peanuts still have an important part to play in the vegan diet and are not only a good source of protein and fibre, but contain essential minerals such as copper, Any prisoner claiming to be vegan and purchasing or consuming non-vegan items will phosphorus and magnesium. 30g/1 oz of peanuts provides 16% of the daily need of be seen to be disregarding the declaration which clearly states: ‘if you are seen eating or Vitamin E. purchasing non-vegan food, your supplements may be stopped.’ (These are the weekly supplements such as soya milk/nuts/seeds). Why do we need brazil nuts? Is E471 suitable for us? Brazil nuts provide selenium in the vegan diet. At least one brazil nut a day is recommended. Alternatively eat 100g (3½ oz) sunflower seeds. If you are unsure contact either the Vegan Society or VPSG who will then research the item to check whether it is vegan or not. Can I get vegan cheese in prison? What is the importance of iodine in the vegan diet and how can I obtain it? Cheezly is currently available on the full National Product List. You can apply to your Prison Canteen Team for them to consider adding it to your local listing. Catering Managers Iodine is required in order to ensure proper functioning of the thyroid gland and can be should also be able to purchase this from their supplier. found in small, but variable amounts in many foods and in larger amounts in seaweeds such as kelp. What is the National Product List? However, we realise it is unlikely seaweed (iodine source) will be cooked in the prison kitchen on a daily basis as it is unpalatable to most. We therefore recommend an iodine The National Product List contains a list of products from which the local Prison Retail supplement should be available through the prison canteen (M/Vit Tabs with Iodine), or Team chooses products they feel will be popular purchases. alternatively from Holland & Barrett. Alternatively, request permission to obtain this supplement from either the Vegan Society or Holland and Barrett.

14 15 I have been told that unless I provide a Vegan Society membership card, I do not have to be provided with a vegan pack. Is this the case? No. NOMS now states there is no requirement for vegans to produce a Vegan Society membership card. Anyone who claims to be vegan should be considered so, unless it becomes obvious that they are not following a vegan diet.

Can you suggest puddings that the catering staff could prepare for vegans? Flapjacks, date or apricot slices, scones, rock cakes, chocolate cake, fruit cake, shortbread, bread pudding, apple crumble and cookies can all easily be made suitable for vegans by replacing the dairy in recipes with soya milk and/or vegan margarine.

How much protein do we need daily? On average a male adult requires 55g/2 oz protein daily and a female adult requires 45g/1½ oz. Protein is not usually a cause for concern. A varied diet based on plant foods including some peas, beans or lentils should meet protein needs. Combining grains with beans in individual meals is not necessary, but including some peas, beans or lentils most days is a good idea as they are both rich in protein and high in the amino acid lysine which is low in many grains, nuts and seeds.

Worried about whether you are receiving a healthy vegan diet? VPSG and the Vegan Society work closely together in their efforts to ensure a nutritionally balanced diet is provided to vegans in prison. We have provided every prison with a copy of our Catering Information Guide’. However if you feel your diet is not nutritionally sound, follow the instructions on Page 9.

How can I get vegan food in court? When you attend court whilst in prison, you will probably be held in a cell where the question of being provided with vegan food may arise. Our information is that some People Escort Courier Services (PECS) do not always have any vegan pre-packaged food available. However, you are entitled to be fed in line with your requirements as part of their Duty of Care. If you are experiencing problems, your solicitor may be able to assist you.

What is the procedure I should follow to be able to order from Honesty or Holland & Barrett? It differs from prison to prison, but usually the Diversity Manager or Residential Governor should be able to assist you gain permission to place such orders. All permitted mail order companies need to be added to the approved Facilities List held in the Finance Department. Once approval is obtained, then a mail order can be arranged via a cash disbursement through prisoners’ monies.

There is no vegan body building protein available on the retail sheet. What do you suggest?

Some prisons permit a mail order from My Protein who stock Pea Protein Isolate. You would however, need to seek the assistance of either your Diversity Manager or Residential Governor (www.myprotein.com/uk Tel: 0845 094 9889).

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