According to twenty years of data analyzed by researchers with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2017, correctional inmates are 6.4 times more likely to suffer from a food related illness than the average American.

In an effort to improve food safety practices at the local correctional facility, the Oldham County EFNEP assistant partnered with other educators in the community to teach healthy living practices to inmates in the Substance Abuse Program.  The Healthy Choices Curriculum was used, with emphasis on the Food Safety lesson, during the seven week course.  The Healthy Choices Curriculum was taught to 5 different groups from October 2017 thru September 2018.  Participants learned the importance of proper handwashing technique, appropriate food storage, and saitary food preparation practices.

Between October 2017 and September 2018, 57 men have graduated from the program and returned to their families.  71% of the graduates reported a positive change in food safety practices.