More than half of workers often skip their lunch breaks

A study of 2,000 full-time employees found only 36% take their lunch break every day, with 13% admitting it is often as little as once a week. Nearly half of those (45%) who skip a break simply eat their food at their desk, while 59% feel they are too busy to step away. 

But 12% claimed they feel guilty for taking a rest, while 24% blamed their colleagues distracting them for skipping the break. As a result, 59% struggle with the afternoon slump – with the lull most commonly kicking in at 3pm.

Caroline Hughes, marketing director at plant-based food brand, Gosh!, which commissioned the research, said: “Lunch is a crucial opportunity to nourish your body and set you up for the afternoon”.

“As the science shows, without the necessary nutrition, movement and mental reset, we underprepare our bodies to cope with the demands of a busy afternoon – from flagging focus to excess snacking”.

The study also found taste (59%) and convenience (50%) dominate lunchtime decision-making. The findings also revealed a clear disconnect between priorities and habits – while 80% recognise the importance of fibre, just 23% manage to get their five-a-day, highlighting a gap between intent and everyday action.

The OnePoll.com study also found 79% prioritise clean ingredients when it comes to thinking about what they want for lunch. While 49% prepare plant-based lunches, and for 60% the priority is low carb.  

More than two thirds (67%) acknowledged that what they eat impacts their productivity for the rest of the day. With 42% seeing lack of concentration as a key symptom of the afternoon crash.

Nutritionist Laura Tilt, who is working with Gosh!, claims you need 37 minutes to have a well-rounded lunch break. They said: “Brits are not great at taking lunch breaks, but a proper pause in the day can help restore energy, improve focus and reduce stress.

“As a nutritionist, I will always preach about the importance of eating a well-balanced nutritional lunch to make sure you are prepared for a productive afternoon. That’s why we are encouraging workers to set aside 37 minutes and reclaim their lunch to fuel their mind and body the right way.”