New York Consolidated Laws, Social Services Law - SOS § 461-r. Food services

1. Food services in adult care facilities shall be provided in a manner that respects the dietary needs of the residents in relation to health conditions, food allergies and dietary intolerances, religious and ethnic mandates, and that allows for a reasonable variation in taste preferences.

2. Resident food committees in each facility, assembled from among the residents, shall have the freedom to meet and evaluate the food service available to them without interference, and shall advise the operators of the adult care facility as to issues of dietary needs, preferences, food quality and safety.

3. The commissioner of health shall review existing adult care facility regulations and amend existing regulations or promulgate new regulations if appropriate, to determine those food service personnel in adult care facilities that should undergo training appropriate for the level of food service which they may perform, including but not limited to sanitation in the food preparation and service areas;  refrigeration and preservation;  principles of a balanced meal;  and ordering with an emphasis on fresh foods.