The California Department of Health has issued an All Facilities Letter (AFL) requiring healthcare facilities, including nursing homes, to provide plant-based meal options for patients. Effective January 1, 2019, Senate Bill 1138 mandates that General Acute Care Hospitals, Acute Psychiatric Hospitals, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Intermediate Care Facilities, Special Hospitals, and Nursing Facilities offer plant-based meals in accordance with physicians' orders. These meals must not contain any animal products or by-products, such as meat, poultry, fish, dairy, or eggs. Correctional Treatment Centers are also required to provide plant-based meals for inmate-patients. Facilities are responsible for complying with all laws and regulations, and any questions should be directed to the local district office.

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