While there have been marginal improvements on the percentage of healthy foods being purchased, a recent report published by the Access to Nutrition Foundation is bleak. They report that two-thirds of products sold by the 30 largest food companies in the world are unhealthy. This is regardless of how the food is being marketed and labeled – the messages on both are deceptive.
A Newsweek article emphasized that consumers need balanced information to make healthy decisions and that an informed consumer is a person with the most power. This information should not only be an essential component of corporate wellness programs but reinforced through corporate messages as well as corporate events.
Not too long ago when eating lunch at a company with a Wellness Program, Fitness Center, and Subsidized Healthy Food Options, there we were confronted with all sorts of sweet and salty treats when waiting in the cafeteria checkout line to pay. Just like at a grocery store: candy, chips, cookies, and ‘protein bars’ lined the shelves at the checkout line. The temptations were hard to resist, and employees were adding items to their tray, regardless if healthier items were already selected.
If the organization and wellness program promote nutritious eating, then the messages should be consistent throughout the organization.
- Educate employees regarding label reading and not just reading the large print messaging on packages, such as ‘heart healthy’, ‘good for you’, ‘high protein’, etc.
- Arm employees with facts to make better food choices. Treats certainly can and should be part of a nutritious plan, but that decision should be made consciously (not just because of being bombarded by marketing or when standing in line to checkout of the cafeteria!)
- Move treats away from the direct line of vision.
- Assess foods served at company meetings and/or celebration events to ensure an overall selection of healthy eating.
- Assess vending machine options to allow for a variety of selections and subsidize healthier options.
- Offer mindful nutrition sessions that promote a healthy and nourishing relationship with food.
Behavior change initiatives are not enough. Changing the environment and fostering a supportive culture are needed to develop informed employees with the most power! Wellness programs can take the lead!