Lots of people skip lunch during the workday, but Gen Z leads the pack, according to new research by ezCater. Maybe it’s because they think skipping lunch will help them to be more productive, or maybe they feel guilty taking a break, but our new Lunch Report reveals that it often backfires, taking a toll on their well-being and job performance. 

Gen Z already makes up 30% of today’s workforce and they’re set to become the largest generation in the workforce by 2035, so it’s no surprise that employers are starting to pay closer attention. But here’s the good news: a few small changes can bring lunch breaks back into the company culture.

To get a clearer picture on why younger workers often skip lunch — and how employers can help turn things around — ezCater’s 2024 Lunch Report provides valuable insights. Let’s dive into several Gen Z trends that are shaping the workplace when it comes to lunch. 

Gen Z is counting the seconds until their lunch break

Lunch is a prized part of the day for employees of all ages, but it’s the Gen Z workers who might value it the most. In fact, 50% of those surveyed say lunch is their favorite part of the workday. It’s not surprising, since 72% of younger workers also skip breakfast, so they’re downright hangry by the time noon rolls around. 

Just as important, lunch gives them a chance to escape the grind. Stepping away, even for a few minutes, helps them recharge, reset, and get back to work with a fresh focus. 

Where did the lunch breaks go?

Gen Z might love the idea of lunch, but actually taking that break? That’s a different story. Nearly half of them (47%) miss lunch at least twice a week — way more than Millennials (38%), Gen X (29%), and Boomers (18%). 

Missing midday meals is at the forefront of Gen Z trends, and it’s not for lack of trying. A full 44% of Gen Z workers say they make a point to block time on their schedules for lunch. But something keeps pulling them back to their desks, keeping them from actually making it to the breakroom.

So, what’s getting in the way? The Lunch Report points to two big reasons why these young workers keep pushing through the day without a lunch break.

Lunch break buster #1: Too busy, can’t eat

It turns out, setting aside time for lunch isn’t enough. Despite their best efforts, Gen Z employees often find that the time they blocked off disappears into the chaos of the workday. Meetings pop up, emails pile up, and before they know it, lunchtime has come and gone.

According to the Lunch Report, 75% point to last-minute meetings as the major reason their lunch breaks slip away. Between the endless pings and “quick calls,” snagging that midday recharge has turned into quite the daily challenge. 

Lunch break buster #2: Lunchtime guilt

Even when Gen Z employees do manage to take a break, it’s not always stress-free. Surprisingly, 17% admit to feeling guilty about stepping away for lunch — a lot more than Millennials (12%), Gen X (9%), or Boomers (4%).

Talk about lunch break anxiety! Younger workers often worry that hitting pause for a proper lunch might send the wrong message about their dedication. Plus, there’s that nagging fear of missing critical updates while they’re away. So, many end up camping out at their desks with a sandwich or skipping lunch altogether, thinking it’s the “safe” career move. 

Bringing back lunch breaks does more than fill empty stomachs

Skipping lunch has become second nature for many Gen Z workers, but it’s doing more harm than good. Not only does it leave them low on energy, but it also impacts overall company performance. But there’s a simple way to turn things around — free or subsidized employee meals. 

Free lunch isn’t just a perk — it’s a power move that hits differently, especially for younger employees. For Gen Z and Millennials watching their wallets, it’s one less daily expense to worry about. And when lunch is on the company’s tab, that nagging voice about “slacking off” during their break simply melts away. It’s basically permission to actually enjoy their midday break.

Feed employee satisfaction

Bringing lunch into the workplace is a win-win. Lunch breaks are already the best part of the day for many Gen Z employees, and it’s even better when they’re catered by a favorite local restaurant. 

Let’s be real: A delicious lunch delivery can transform a regular Tuesday into a bright spot in the workday, something that tells your employees, “Hey, we appreciate you.” And happy taste buds? They’re secretly a recipe for happier employees overall: the Lunch Report found that employees who get a meal on the company dime at least once a week are also the most likely to say they feel good about their jobs. 

Fuel job performance

When employees are hungry, they simply can’t do their best work. and Gen Z workers know their lunch break makes a difference — 100% of them say it boosts their job performance. When they’ve had a break and are fueled up, they’re more focused, creative, and ready to tackle the afternoon. Employers who make lunch breaks a priority for their staff are repaid with higher productivity and happier, more energized teams.

Fill those empty office chairs

With hybrid work becoming the norm, many employers find that free lunches are an effective way to “earn the commute.” The promise of a catered meal from a favorite local restaurant is a strong incentive, especially for Gen Z. A full 60% of them say they’d be willing to work on-site at least three days a week if lunch was part of the deal.

Magic happens when people break bread together. When employees are on-site, they’re more likely to connect and collaborate. Sharing meals creates a sense of community and turns in-office days into something to look forward to. It’s a simple but powerful way to boost both attendance and morale.

Gen Z deserves better workplace meals, and employers can easily deliver

Gen Z workers love their lunch breaks, and employers have the power to bring them back. Free or subsidized meals are more than just food — they’re clear signals that tell your employees you got them. When young professionals know their next great meal is covered, they’re not just well-fed but also energized and ready to bring their A-game every single day.

Relish by ezCater makes bringing meals into the workplace simple and fun — and it’s a solution younger employees love. They can choose their own meals through an app, just like they do in their personal lives. And they’ll enjoy plenty of options from their favorite restaurants, all without having to leave work or spend their hard-earned money.  

Ready to see how a workplace food solution can boost company culture and improve the bottom line? Download the Lunch Report now to dive into more Gen Z trends.