One of the keys to achieving the highest possible level of productivity in any company is for employees to feel comfortable in their workplace. Labor well-being is often determined by numerous factors, among which working conditions, correct treatment with superiors or the work environment generated by the relationship with colleagues are usually highlighted. However, promoting adequate nutrition in the workplace, and taking food safety into account, will also positively affect the worker’s performance. For this reason, occupational safety must take food into account: it must disseminate information, facilitate healthier options and ensure that the appropriate processes are followed, such as the use of food disinfectants appropriate, when preparing the menus of the company.
The importance of nutrition in the labor sector
At present, there are various studies that have detected links between high body mass indices in workers and a decrease in productivity in companies. In fact, the European Network for the Promotion of Health at Work points out that investing one euro in health can provide benefits ranging between 2.5 and 4.8 euros. Among other reasons, they say, this is because it reduces absenteeism. For this reason, taking care of the employees’ diet is so important, especially for the food sector. In fact, many companies already take all kinds of healthy initiatives that are intended for your own template.
Prevention is not enough
Although occupational safety must ensure that accidents at work and other related problems are avoided, it is also essential that you introduce concepts such as the promotion of healthy habits, many of which will be related to food safety.
A healthy diet is a habit that can improve the quality of life and that takes on a new dimension in the workplace. For this reason, more and more companies are including measures designed to offer all possible information to their staff, but also to positively influence eating behaviors and their skills in this regard.
Thus, as far as food is concerned, efforts will be made to disseminate as much information as possible. In addition, the company canteen must provide healthier options, which can be achieved by introducing fruit at a reduced price or replacing industrial pastries, which are usually available in vending machines, with other healthier products. Of course, the company menus that are offered must be varied and balanced. Regarding the kitchen, the staff must take appropriate safety and hygiene measures. Thus, the raw material must be disinfected and handled correctly at all times.
Food safety also involves avoiding health problems that can be caused by allergies and intolerances. In this way, those companies that offer menus to their employees should include gluten-free or lactose-free options, for example. Likewise, allergies to products such as eggs or nuts will be taken into account and, if an employee suffers from it, their food must be prepared separately.
The importance of food safety
The concept of food security is based on three main pillars: the availability of food, access to it and consumption that is nutritionally adequate. This is what allows people to have their needs covered so that they can carry out their activities actively. That is why this factor stands as a cornerstone for the proper functioning of any company. When the company integrates health and nutrition in well-being at work, it generates a noticeable positive impact, improves the quality of life of its employees and, in turn, optimizes their productivity.
