Why Taking a Proper Lunch Break Matters - and How Offices Can Support It

It’s a scenario many of us know too well: you’ve got a mountain of emails, a packed calendar, and barely a moment to breathe. You think,

“I’ll just grab a meal deal and eat it at my desk”

“I’m too busy, I’ll work through lunch.”

These small compromises may seem harmless, but over time they accumulate stress and lead to burnout. Employees who skip proper breaks often report feeling sluggish, unmotivated, and less productive - all of which can ripple through the workplace, creating delays, tension, and decreased engagement.

Recent research highlights just how widespread the issue is:

• 42% of office workers spend their lunch at their desk every day.
• 34% feel unmotivated at work as a result.
• 34% eat unhealthy meals three or more times a day, yet many say that employer incentives would help.

Source: City Pantry Research, March 2020

The reasons employees skip proper lunches are clear: convenience, workload pressure, and lack of support. And yet, the impact on productivity, creativity, and overall wellbeing is significant. Studies consistently show that taking regular breaks and eating nutritious meals helps maintain energy levels, focus, and morale throughout the day.

This is where solutions like Rapid can make a difference.

By providing a pre-order and pre-pay system, employees can enjoy hearty, nutritious meals and actually take the time to step away from their desks - all within their lunch break. Healthy, energised employees are happier, more focused, and more productive, creating a positive ripple effect across the workplace.

For offices, supporting proper lunches isn’t just a perk - it’s a strategic investment in employee wellbeing and engagement. Encouraging staff to take breaks and eat well can improve mood, reduce absenteeism, and foster a more collaborative, enjoyable work environment.

Ultimately, taking lunch seriously is about valuing people as more than just “resources” on a spreadsheet. When workplaces provide tools and incentives to help employees recharge, everyone wins - from individual team members to the business as a whole.