As we sit behind our desks day in and day out, it is not uncommon to find ourselves snacking on foods that are not particularly healthy. From crisps to sugar-filled cereal bars, the treats we nibble on typically have few nutrients and do little to enhance our work performance, leading instead to inevitable weight gain and a lack of energy.
Surveys of full-time employees indicate that less than half are happy with their existing job. But a recent poll of more than 1,000 office workers found that satisfaction levels jump to more like 67% if they are provided with free food - even though a mere 16% actually receive any.
So with this in mind, it may be a good time to explore the possibilities of offering healthy snacks to your team. Here are some simple suggestions:
- Popcorn
While fresh fruit is always a popular choice and will work wonders for your staff’s health, what about giving them something a little more unique such as popcorn? Popcorn is a fun snack that need not be limited to cinema trips and will certainly attract attention.
In fact, it is a surprisingly low-calorie option and comes in a limitless array of possible flavours, ranging from caramel and butter to blue cheese if you are feeling really adventurous. Similarly, a popcorn dispensary and colourful paper holders will add a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ to your office, while recycling the holders will support your reputation as an eco-friendly organisation, which makes it win-win.
- Apple and cinnamon muffins
Most of us are guilty at some point of a mid-morning trip to the nearest coffee shop for a chocolate chip muffin to see us through until lunchtime. And they are not all bad - muffins are arguably rich in fibre, but a fruity alternative undoubtedly offers more health benefits.
So why not go for a healthy, non-processed apple and cinnamon alternative? Not only are they full of flavour, but they also include cinnamon, which is one of the healthiest spices on the planet and helps to lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. The apple component, meanwhile, will go towards employees’ five a day, helping to lower their risk of diabetes.
- Avocado fries
It seems that everyone is obsessed with avocado these days, so it could be time to jump on the bandwagon. Avocado fries are taking the world by storm, yet they are incredibly healthy. You could even invest in a pop-up avocado fry station if you really want to be fancy.
- Superfood rocky road
Chocolate always seems like good comfort food, especially if stress levels are high. But it is a bit lacking in nutrients for an afternoon pick-me-up. So transform a classic rocky road biscuit into a healthy treat by using dark chocolate and including superfoods such as roasted almonds, goji berries or coconut. Having a bowl to hand during meetings will not only break the ice and spark conversation, but it will also show your appreciation of high-quality ingredients.
George Rouse is the owner of boutique catering company George's Kitchen, which offers a bespoke service for both small and large events across London.
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As we sit behind our desks day in and day out, it is not uncommon to find ourselves snacking on foods that are not particularly healthy. From crisps to sugar-filled cereal bars, the treats we nibble on typically have few nutrients and do little to enhance our work performance, leading instead to inevitable weight gain and a lack of energy.
Surveys of full-time employees indicate that less than half are happy with their existing job. But a recent poll of more than 1,000 office workers found that satisfaction levels jump to more like 67% if they are provided with free food - even though a mere 16% actually receive any.
So with this in mind, it may be a good time to explore the possibilities of offering healthy snacks to your team. Here are some simple suggestions:
- Popcorn
While fresh fruit is always a popular choice and will work wonders for your staff’s health, what about giving them something a little more unique such as popcorn? Popcorn is a fun snack that need not be limited to cinema trips and will certainly attract attention.
In fact, it is a surprisingly low-calorie option and comes in a limitless array of possible flavours, ranging from caramel and butter to blue cheese if you are feeling really adventurous. Similarly, a popcorn dispensary and colourful paper holders will add a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ to your office, while recycling the holders will support your reputation as an eco-friendly organisation, which makes it win-win.
- Apple and cinnamon muffins
Most of us are guilty at some point of a mid-morning trip to the nearest coffee shop for a chocolate chip muffin to see us through until lunchtime. And they are not all bad - muffins are arguably rich in fibre, but a fruity alternative undoubtedly offers more health benefits.
So why not go for a healthy, non-processed apple and cinnamon alternative? Not only are they full of flavour, but they also include cinnamon, which is one of the healthiest spices on the planet and helps to lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. The apple component, meanwhile, will go towards employees’ five a day, helping to lower their risk of diabetes.
- Avocado fries
It seems that everyone is obsessed with avocado these days, so it could be time to jump on the bandwagon. Avocado fries are taking the world by storm, yet they are incredibly healthy. You could even invest in a pop-up avocado fry station if you really want to be fancy.
- Superfood rocky road
Chocolate always seems like good comfort food, especially if stress levels are high. But it is a bit lacking in nutrients for an afternoon pick-me-up. So transform a classic rocky road biscuit into a healthy treat by using dark chocolate and including superfoods such as roasted almonds, goji berries or coconut. Having a bowl to hand during meetings will not only break the ice and spark conversation, but it will also show your appreciation of high-quality ingredients.
George Rouse is the owner of boutique catering company George's Kitchen, which offers a bespoke service for both small and large events across London.
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Trends 2018: What's on the menu for healthy eating?
