Ohio says private prison food vendor exceeded cost savings

COLUMBUS (AP) — Ohio says its contract with a prison food vendor has saved taxpayers more than expected and resulted in relatively few problems despite heavy early criticism.

The Department of Rehabilitation and Correction also says many problems, which included understaffing, running out of food, and maggots near food prep areas, were not uncommon when state workers had the contract.

A four-page review released today to The Associated Press through a records request says Philadelphia-based Aramark Correctional Services is serving 50 million meals each year with fewer than five daily documented concerns.

The state says the contract is on track to save $17 million this year, compared to original estimates of $14 million annual savings.

The state has recommended a two-year contract renewal with Aramark that would take effect later this year.