The secretary shall have the power to select a member of the faculty of the University of Washington, or the Washington State University, skilled in scientific food analysis and dietetics, to be known as the state dietitian, who shall make and furnish to the department food analyses showing the relative food value, in respect to cost, of food products, and advise the department as to the quantity, comparative cost, and food values, of proper diets for the inmates of the state institutions under the control of the department. The state dietitian shall receive travel expenses while engaged in the performance of his or her duties in accordance with RCW
43.03.050 and
43.03.060 as now existing or hereafter amended.