Letters to the Editors
Eliminate All Subsidies to the Meat, Dairy, and Egg Industries
I was happy to read in Vegan Journal (Volume 42, Issue 4) in Reed Mangels' article \u2018Meat-Like Veggie Burgers' the following: As consumers become more aware of the environmental and health costs of animal products, there may be a move towards reducing or eliminating government subsidies, and that could make veggie and animal products have similar prices. As a libertarian vegetarian, I have been saying for decades that, if not for government subsidies, meat, dairy, and eggs would be so expensive that most consumers would become vegetarian from economic necessity. Proselytizing would no longer be necessary. I encourage VRG to lobby the federal government to eliminate all subsidies to the meat, dairy, and egg industries.
Nick K., via email
Serving Vegan Food in Nursing Facilities
I wonder if management at a memory care/skilled nursing facility would provide information on how those with dietary preferences due to veganism, religious beliefs, etc., could make those known in advance of becoming a resident? How is it ensured that requests are honored?
Gretchen O., via email
VRG's Food Service Advisor Chef Nancy Berkoff, EdD, RD replied:
There is little uniformity in memory care/skilled nursing facilities' dietary policies. Facilities need to follow federal, state, and local laws and mandates, but the provision of services or enforcement vary.
Depending on the facility's policy, a doctor's order for a specific type of diet (vegan, kosher, gluten-free, etc.) could help to establish the \u201cofficial\u201d need. Prior to admission, have a detailed conversation with the person in charge of fulfilling dietary requests. Request a copy of the vegan foods offered on a regular basis to ensure the selection is nutritious, varied, and meets the patient's needs.
Beyond the dietary/food service staff or nursing staff, a social worker, case manager, or patient services coordinator could be another good contact. There may be an area ombudsman or patient advocate's office, who might be enlisted if reasonable dietary requests are not being honored.
Editor's Note: If readers have experience with this situation as a health professional or family of a resident, please share with us.
