The Oklahoma Department of Corrections announces today that it has selected Aramark as its new agencywide food service provider after a competitive procurement process designed to ensure quality, efficiency and accountability in correctional facility operations.
The new contract will support food service operations across ODOC facilities, better serving our inmate population and enhancing safety and security. The transition to the new provider is planned to happen in phases to ensure ongoing service and minimal disruption to facility operations.
Since the agency began surveying inmates in 2023, food has consistently ranked at the bottom of the list. Addressing inmates’ concerns has been a top priority for ODOC leadership. This partnership marks a significant step toward providing safe, reliable and nutritionally appropriate meals for those in our custody, while enabling ODOC to redirect resources toward safety, security and rehabilitation instead of managing kitchens.
For over a decade, the main protein served has been chicken bulk. With this change, a wider variety of protein options, such as beef, chicken and fish, will be available to better meet the diverse preferences and nutritional needs of everyone. Other adjustments to the menu will be made to ensure specific dietary needs are met, such as gluten-free, high-fiber, dental-soft, age-specific and lactose-free.
“We recognized that improving our food service was a priority to ensure we provide the best care for our incarcerated population,” said Justin Farris, director of the Oklahoma Department of Corrections. “Choosing the right partner helps us streamline operations, support staff and improve the quality and consistency of meals provided to inmates.”
ODOC will continue working closely with facility leadership and the new vendor throughout the transition to ensure consistent service and accountability across all locations. This change reflects ODOC’s commitment to improving daily operations within our facilities while supporting a safe, secure environment for staff and those in our custody.
