Nutritional evaluation of duty meals provided to riot police forces in Germany

Background: The primary role of the German riot police is maintaining internal security. Due to challenging working conditions, riot police forces face an elevated risk of various diseases. During duty, forces are provided with meals. A balanced diet can reduce the risk of some of these diseases and contribute to health-promoting working conditions. Aim: First evaluation of the nutritional quality of duty meals in Germany based on German Nutrition Society recommendations (DGE). Methods: In February and March 2023, the meals on duty (mixed diet, vegetarian, vegan, without pork), provided during 10 operations of a police department, were analysed for their food supply, energy and nutrient content. The nutritional evaluation was conducted based on the food related dietary reference values and the reference values for nutrient intake of the DGE. Results: The dietary reference values were mainly not met. Wholegrains, margarine, fish, nuts and pulses were absent from all meals. Fruits and vegetables, and cereal products were slightly below the dietary reference values while juice, discretionary foods and sausage (except 'vegan') exceeded recommended limits. Macronutrient composition and micronutrient content largely met reference values. However, the content of energy, free sugars, salt, saturated fat and cholesterol was too high while fibre density and unsaturated fat was too low (partly except 'vegan'). Conclusion: This study presents the first nutritional evaluation of the duty meals provided to the German riot police. Regarding nutritional quality, there is significant potential for improvement. By implementing a few targeted adjustments, the nutritional quality could be substantially enhanced.