Searching for creative ways to maximize workplace productivity? One of the secrets may lie in your team’s snack drawers and the office fridge – and indeed, what they eat for lunch.
When workplace deadlines loom and the to-do list never seems to shrink, food can play an unexpected role in boosting worker productivity and morale. A tasty meal or well-timed snack can turn those midday slumps into moments of inspiration and transform a regular break room into a space where ideas flow as freely as the coffee.
By strategically integrating nutritious and delicious food into your team’s routine, you can create marked improvements in focus and performance, making your workplace a hub of efficiency and creativity.
Ready to see how it’s done? Let’s take a closer look at how to increase employee productivity through the power of food.
The link between food and productivity
It’s no secret that free food in the workplace is a nice work perk and a great way to show employee appreciation — but you may be surprised to learn that it can also be so much more.
Recent data from ezCater’s Food for Work Report shows that 53% of employees felt more productive when their employers provided free food. And here’s the kicker — it’s not just about churning out more work. Forty-two percent of workers also reported higher overall work quality after an employer-provided meal or snack.
It’s easy to see why. On any given workday, 30% of employees don’t manage to step away from their desks for a meal — and working nonstop all day can quickly lead to decreased productivity and burnout. By offering in-office catering, you can make it easy for them to grab a tasty and satisfying treat, without the need to plan ahead or disrupt their workflow.
Encouraging food-fueled staff breaks sends a clear message: you care about your employees’ well-being and understand the value of taking a moment to relax and recharge.
Data from ezCater’s 2023 Lunch Report offers further food for thought. It highlights the broader benefits of taking time out for lunch. Over half (53%) of employees report feeling happier after pausing to eat lunch, while 50% say it makes them feel less stressed. A midday pause recharges employees’ mental batteries and helps combat workplace fatigue. In fact, 48% of employees find themselves feeling less burned out when they take a proper lunch break.
The top foods to improve focus
Stocking the workplace with the right kind of fuel can turn your break room into a brain-boosting powerhouse. When it comes to keeping your team at peak performance all day, science shows certain foods have an edge. Here’s a look at go-to options for driving focus and productivity of employees:
- Tea and coffee: Caffeine is the office MVP for more reasons than you might think. Turns out its reputation as a quick pick-me-up tells only half the story. Studies show that caffeine consumption can also boost mental sharpness and help workers better retain new information. Consider upgrading your coffee and tea game to include a variety of options so your team can whip up the perfect brew to keep them sharp and ready to tackle whatever the day throws their way.
- Green, leafy vegetables: Spinach, kale, broccoli, and collards are like brainpower in a bowl. They’re packed with vitamins and antioxidants that keep your brain healthy and may help slow cognitive decline. From ordering a build-your-own salad bar to sneaking healthy greens into sandwiches and wraps, making these nutrient-rich veggies a staple in the break room can have positive long-term benefits.
- Berries: Who doesn’t love a snack that looks as good as it tastes — and also packs a powerful nutritional punch? Berries, particularly strawberries and blueberries, have been shown to delay memory decline. Keep bowls of berries in the break room, offer them as sides, or include them in your catered breakfast spreads.
- Walnuts: Loaded with protein and healthy fats, walnuts are a tasty, filling snack that offers benefits for both your heart and your brain. Swap out the office candy bowls for a walnut stash or add them to meals for an extra crunch — they’re perfect for topping salads or mixing into lunchtime wraps.
- Fatty fish: Everyone can agree that microwaving fish in the office is a no-no, but that doesn’t mean seafood is completely off the menu. From a breakfast bagel with lox and cream cheese to lunch options with tuna, salmon, or cod, the omega-3 fatty acids found in these fish can help boost your team’s brain health and cognitive function.
How to increase employee productivity with food
Wondering how to increase employee productivity? Thoughtfully incorporating food into your workplace culture can help you build happy, focused, and productive teams. From occasional employee appreciation events to well-stocked break rooms, even small gestures can make a big impact.
Wondering how to get started? Check out these five practical, budget-friendly ideas.
1. Fuel meetings with brain-boosting catering
Adding food to meetings transforms them from a mandatory part of the day to an event that employees can actually look forward to. It also keeps hunger pangs at bay, letting everyone focus on the agenda instead of their growling stomachs.
You can keep things simple by preordering boxed lunches. This grab-and-go option eliminates distractions and fuss, making it a win-win for everyone involved.
2. Stock the break room with healthy snacks
Transform the break room into a treasure trove of quick, healthy snacks. This is a great way to satisfy the team’s cravings while also promoting sustained energy and focus throughout the day.
Stock up on a variety of fruits, nuts, and yogurt — and consider adding a hydration station with flavored waters and herbal teas to keep everyone well-hydrated and refreshed.
3. Spice up skills with team cooking classes
A team cooking class turns the heat up on collaboration and communication, all while dishing out a new, healthy skill. Spending time together in this unique setting allows coworkers to connect on a different level, laying the foundation for stronger teamwork and boosted worker productivity.
Consider scheduling these classes during a long lunch break or as an end-of-day activity to wind down before heading home.
4. Kickstart mornings with healthy breakfast options
Ease the sting of that early-morning commute with a delicious breakfast spread. It’s the perfect pick-me-up, turning groggy hellos into energized let’s-gos and setting up the team for a day of wins.
Arrange for a breakfast station a couple of times a week, featuring items like whole-grain cereals, fresh fruit, and protein-packed options, or for those busy days, offer grab-and-go options like breakfast sandwiches and burritos. No matter what types of treats you choose, don’t forget the coffee.
5. Celebrate wins with food-focused parties
Shine a spotlight on your top-performing teams with a tasty celebration. A fun, food-themed party turns a simple thank-you into a shared experience, making the team’s achievements even sweeter.
This is the perfect opportunity to “wow” your team with a memorable spread. From lavish chocolate fountains to make-your-own meal stations, combining a variety of choices with a visually stunning setup will turn your celebration into the office’s most coveted event.
Boost your team’s energy and focus with ezCater
Want to create a workplace where your team starts their day with energy and enthusiasm? Where they tackle their to-do lists with a smile, already thinking about what’s for lunch? At ezCater, we make it easy to turn this dream into a reality. From early-morning breakfasts to team celebrations, we’ve got you covered.
ezCater’s corporate catering solutions streamline the ordering process, helping you feed hungry employees with just a few steps. Stay on top of your budget, manage dietary preferences, and turn every meal into an experience, without the hassle and fuss. Let us show you just how easy it can be to unlock the secret to a happier, more productive workforce.