Healthful Workplace Foods May Improve Employee Wellness

Nearly a quarter of working Americans obtain substantial weekly calories in the workplace, according to a study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Researchers determined how often employees eat at work and assessed the dietary quality of food choices based on survey results. Worksite foods are often high in fat, sugar, and salt because of products like pizza, sugary beverages, and cookies, and low in fruits and vegetables. The authors suggest employers offer more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains through food service guidelines to promote healthful choices or provide free options.

Healthful workplace foods may reduce absenteeism and chronic disease rates among employees while increasing productivity. The Physicians Committee’s Employee Wellness Program helps to create a culture of health and wellness benefiting employees at work and at home.