Over half of workers regularly skip lunch on the job due to high food costs, increasing job pressure
Over half of US workers say they skip lunch to cut costs, according to a survey from ezCater.
TL;DR
- 54% of US full-time employees skip lunch at work at least once a week in 2026.
- 81% of workers report inflation has changed their eating habits at work, leading them to cut costs.
- Average weekly spending on work lunch decreased by 8% from 2025 to 2026.
- Increased job demands and company culture contribute to employees eating at their desks or skipping lunch.
- Younger generations (Gen Z and Millennials) feel more pressure to skip lunch compared to older colleagues.
- Skipping lunch reduces opportunities for social interaction and negatively impacts productivity.
- Free catered lunches could incentivize employees, especially younger ones, to return to the office.
- 35% of employees would prefer a protected daily lunch break over additional paid time off.