Packed Lunch Vs Canteen! - Which is best?

Hi folks,

 

Earlier in the week I saw a discussion on children’s lunch boxes, & that apparently 9/10 of them are ‘unhealthy’! In light of this, one particular school has banned packed lunches, forcing the pupils to purchase their ‘healthier’ school dinners.

Let’s think about this in an adult workplace context, should a company only allow food bought from its canteen?

 

• This takes away employee free choice & could cause resentment to the company.

• Who says the company canteen food is healthier? (Many canteens are ran by sub-contracted companies that may be selected on their low cost (likely low quality ingredients) & who don’t have an interest in your workforce health.

• It could cost more for the employee to buy than a packed lunch does.

• What about medical conditions such as food allergies & intolerances?

So what’s the answer? Well this is what I’d recommend:

• Allow employees to bring packed lunch & provide a leaflet on suggested healthy options.

• Limit the amount of high sugar, salt & saturated fat foods available on-site & perhaps raise their price slightly)

• Design a canteen menu that has had the input of an up-to-date nutritional advisor who is familiar with the industry sector.

• Sell this food at a non-profit price so it’s attractive & affordable (The company will reap wider profits through overall improved health & performance).     

• This increased use of the canteen facilities encourages employees to actually take their break (socialise & change of environment to mentally refresh) & not eat at desk.

If you like any of these ideas then please contact me to help you put them in to place.

Thanks

james