Lunch at the workplace

Rosalee Brown, Gleaner Writer

We spend many hours at work and an additional number of hours commuting to and from work. As a result, two or more meals are eaten outside the home. Lunch is often eaten at work and, for many people, this is the largest or most substantial meal of the day and the only 'cooked' meal. Lunch choices can contribute to the health and well-being of individuals and by extension the organisation. Cost plays a significant role in the choice of meal for many people.

One way to contribute to staff welfare is for companies to reduce the lunch burden on workers (especially those companies which employ a lot of people). They could subsidise meals or have specific corporate plans for workers' meals. When workers are assured of a meal, they spend less time trying to obtain food and, with a corporate plan, meals can be tailor-made and healthier than the general offerings.

Lunch voucher

Fewer companies are providing meals for their staff. Some companies may have a lunch-voucher system where a voucher can be redeemed at specific food outlets. Others have an in-house canteen or kitchen where meals are prepared for the staff, and others make no provisions for lunch. Providing meals for staff is cost-effective and ensures that time is not spent searching for food. Staff also feel cared for. Healthier staff should equal greater productivity and fewer sick days.

I read recently that the police force in Mexico City had a high percentage of overweight and obese personnel and they were being affected by many chronic diseases associated with obesity. The police department introduced an intervention to make staff lunches healthier by reducing total calories for each staff, reducing fats, sugars and sodium, and introducing more whole foods such as fruits for dessert. This initiative resulted in weight loss and improved lifestyle for the staff. The men and women of the force commended the initiative.

Individuals are ultimately responsible for what they eat but organisations with foresight can make their lunch choices healthier.

Rosalee M. Brown is a registered dietitian/nutritionist who operates Integrated Nutrition and Health Services. Email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.