With the rise of health-conscious individuals and a growing awareness about the impact of nutrition on workplace productivity and overall well-being, many companies are starting to listen to employee requests to have healthy food options on-site. As a solution for businesses to meet these requests, micro markets are popping up everywhere providing simple, quick access to more robust meals and snacks at work.
But with so many choices available from these micro markets, how can employees make informed decisions to optimize their nutrition for a healthier workday? Below are some key tips for navigating the micro market options.
Nutrient-Rich Snack Options
One of the easiest ways to ensure a healthier workday is by choosing nutrient-dense meals and snacks. These foods pack a punch in terms of essential vitamins, minerals, and energy without excessive calories. Some great options include fresh fruits, nuts, seeds, and yogurt. Not only do these choices provide vital nutrients, but they also offer a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.
Protein-Packed Choices
Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body and promoting satiety. Encourage employees to select protein-rich choices such as hard-boiled eggs, hummus with whole grain crackers, cold meat sandwiches or wraps, or protein bars to keep them feeling full and energized throughout the workday. These options are convenient and easy to grab on the go from a micro market.
Whole Grain Goodness
For foods with complex carbohydrates, whole grains should be the go-to choice over refined grains every time. Whole grains provide sustained energy, improved digestion, and a range of essential nutrients. Consider including options like whole wheat bread, brown rice, and oats for meals or snacks from the micro market to support healthier eating habits.
Vegetable Variety
Incorporating a range of colorful vegetables into meals and snacks enhances fiber intake while enriching the dishes with vibrant flavors and textures. Providing employees with a selection of vegetable options, including salads, wraps, or veggie and hummus packs, ensures they receive a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.
Healthy Beverage Alternatives
Hydration is important throughout the day. Having options like water, herbal teas, or unsweetened beverages such as sparkling water instead of sugary sodas or energy drinks can help reduce excessive sugar intake, keeping employees hydrated better and longer.
Balanced Meal Combinations
Creating a balanced meal can be tough for some employees to manage at home, let alone at work, but by providing balanced meal combinations (that have a source of protein, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and plenty of vegetables) in a micro market, you help ensure diverse and nutritious eating experiences—giving your employees their best shot at a healthy and productive workday.
Recognizing the increasing demand for accessible and health-conscious options in the workplace, our micro market services here at GlobalConnect rise to the occasion, meeting the growing need for accessible, healthy options optimized for the workplace. If you want to invest in your team’s well-being and productivity, contact us, and we will work with you to bring healthier food choices to you and your employees.