Promote Employee Well-Being Through Workplace Nutrition | Cowan

March is Nutrition Month in Canada. Dietitians of Canada has chosen the theme Nourish to Flourish for Nutrition Month 2025, encapsulating the transformative role that food and nutrition play in our lives.

Employee well-being is more relevant now than ever, and health initiatives are at the top of employers' minds, emphasizing physical health and better work- life integration. The past few years have made us recognize the importance of employee well-being and how much of an impact employee well-being has on organizational productivity and performance. When employees are supported in the workplace to feel their best physically and mentally, they can perform their best in all aspects of their lives. However, one piece of the puzzle that is rarely discussed is the importance of nutrition in the workplace, which can heavily influence employee well-being and organizational productivity and performance.

The importance of nutrition in the workplace

Healthy eating improves employee productivity. Good, nutritious food provides people with vitamins and nutrients that the human brain needs to function correctly. When our brains are adequately fueled, our cognitive function increases, and concentration, energy, mood, and self-esteem improve. This, in turn, creates happier and, generally, more productive employees. Because organizational success typically relies on the productivity and performance of its employees, proper nutrition that fuels employee bodies and brains is crucial. When employees are eating nutritiously, physical and mental well-being are enhanced, which can reduce absenteeism, thus increasing overall organization-wide productivity and fostering a healthier workplace.

Reduce organizational costs through better nutrition

Did you know that providing healthy food options in the workplace can lower your organization’s costs? Better nutrition can lead to a reduction in the likelihood of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain forms of cancer. A large portion of corporate healthcare expenses are chronic disease-related, with many of these chronic diseases being diet-related (or partially preventable through diet). According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 80% of premature heart disease and stroke can be prevented through healthy life habits, such as a proper and balanced diet.

Investing in and supporting employees’ nutrition increases employee and organizational health while helping reduce costs in the long run. Chronic diseases that stem from poor nutrition can lead to absenteeism and productivity losses in the form of functional limitation. Healthy food options can be provided at the workplace, saving employees time searching for affordable, fast, and nutritious lunches. Healthy foods that can be made accessible in the workplace include fruits, vegetables, yogurt, granola and protein bars, and oatmeal.

The role of the workplace in influencing nutrition

Now that we understand the benefits of healthy eating in the workplace, we must recognize just how big of a role the workplace can play in fostering eating habits (good or bad). For many, work can be a stressor and physically and mentally draining due to unpredictable or demanding schedules. On top of this, the workplace is filled with other people and a culture that may or may not value healthy eating, influencing the food choices being made. However, there are steps that we can take to help support and encourage healthier eating habits in employees. Here are a few tips to better support good employee nutrition in your organization.

Practical tips to support nutrition in the workplace

1. Create a healthy eating meeting policy. Implementing a healthy eating meeting policy ensures that any catered meetings or events offer nutritious options. This policy can include guidelines for selecting balanced meals, incorporating fruits and vegetables, and avoiding excessive sugary snacks. Employers can set a positive example by prioritizing healthy choices and encouraging employees to make better dietary decisions.
2. Start a Fruity Friday program. Consider initiating a Fruity Friday program where fresh fruit or vegetables are available for employees to share. This can be organized by alternating who brings in the produce each week, promoting nutrition and hygiene. Such programs provide healthy snacks and foster a sense of community and teamwork.
3. Invite a dietician or allergist to the workplace. Hosting a dietician or allergist at the workplace can be incredibly beneficial. These professionals can offer valuable insights into healthy eating, food allergies, and overall health. Organize workshops or seminars where employees can learn about balanced diets, managing allergies, and making informed food choices. This initiative can empower employees with knowledge and encourage healthier lifestyles.
4. Set up a water challenge. Hydration is essential for maintaining good health and productivity. Encourage employees to participate in a water challenge where daily water intake is tracked. Provide reusable water bottles and set up hydration stations around the office. Recognize and reward those who meet their hydration goals, creating a fun and engaging way to promote regular water consumption.
5. Provide space for lunch and snack preparation. Ensure employees have a designated space to store and prepare their lunches and snacks. A clean and accessible fridge, microwave, and utensils can make it easier for employees to bring healthy meals from home. This not only supports better nutrition but also reduces the reliance on fast food and unhealthy options.
6. Offer healthy options in vending machines and on-site food services. Review the offerings in vending machines and any on-site food services to include healthy choices. Stock vending machines with items like nuts, dried fruit, whole-grain snacks, and low-sugar beverages. Collaborate with food service providers to offer nutritious meals and snacks, making it convenient for employees to choose healthier alternatives.