HI SR82

Urges the Director of Health and Director of Corrections and Rehabilitation to encourage hospitals and prisons to offer minimally-processed foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, herbs, spices, and non-dairy beverages instead of ultra-processed foods.

Identifies health benefits of minimally-processed diets including reduced risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other chronic conditions.

Notes that many people, particularly Asian-Americans, are lactose-intolerant and should have access to non-dairy beverage options meeting USDA nutritional standards.

Cites potential benefits to Hawaii including taxpayer savings, improved public health outcomes, increased demand for local farmers' products, and support for traditional Native Hawaiian dietary and cultural practices.

References Hawaii's July 2021 climate emergency declaration and studies showing ultra-processed foods account for up to one-third of diet-related greenhouse gas emissions.