DIET IN THE NAVY
[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.] SIR,—" F. W. D.'s " letter on the diet in the Navy raises the question of the quality of the rations provided in the other Services. I do not know whether any change . has taken place in the quality since 1919, but there seems no ierison to suppose that there has been any notable improvement.
If this assumption is correct; then undoubtedly the food of our lighting forces is inadequate, not in bulk, but in vitamins, mineral salts, and roughage, three important constituents essential to health. Up to (and including) the year 1919,. there was a deficiency of fresh vegetables and a total absence of fresh fruits, while wholemeal bread and flour were iinheaid of. Hence the unfortunate poPulaiity of the notorious " Nor 9'" pill, -the widespreid use of which proVided over- whelming evidence as to the unsatisfaCtory nature of the diet.
Is there amore intelligent provision of foodstuffs to-day? If not, is it-not -desirable, in the- light of modern dietetic
knowledge, that the Army, Navy, and Air Force authorities should institute the necessary reforms at once ?
This should have not only a marked effect on the physique and stamina of the men, but also on their efficiency.—I. am, Sir, &c., H. H. STAINTON. Queen's College, Birmingham.
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