Survey: Almost 40% of Gen Z workers skip lunch due to workload, blame

LOS ANGELES – ezCater’s 2024 Lunch Report reveals that nearly 40% of Gen Z workers regularly skip lunch, and 47% miss it at least twice a week. This generation, born between 1997 and 2012, faces the pressures of heavy workloads and the guilt of taking a break.

Although half of Gen Z workers recognize lunch as the best part of their workday, many still feel the need to push through without rest. Gen Z are four times more likely than baby boomers to feel guilty about taking time off for lunch.

How does skipping lunch affect work performance?

Despite skipping lunch, Gen Z workers understand the importance of breaks. All Gen Z workers surveyed agreed that taking a lunch break positively affects their work performance. However, guilt and workload pressures still cause many to forego these essential breaks.

An independent study from New York University showed that unpredictable work schedules contribute to poor sleep, fatigue and emotional exhaustion, underscoring the need for regular breaks.

Is skipping lunch a wider issue among workers?

The problem of skipping lunch is not unique to Gen Z. The ezCater survey found that 49% of all workers skip lunch at least once a week. Of all employees, 23% said they simply don’t have enough time to take a break due to heavy workloads, while 19% blamed back-to-back meetings.

How can workplaces promote healthier habits?

Experts and reports urge companies to foster a healthier work culture by encouraging employees to take regular breaks. “Lunch breaks can bring people together and improve overall well-being,” said Kaushik Subramanian, chief revenue officer at ezCater.

The source:

This information comes from ezCater’s 2024 Lunch Report and additional research from New York University on work schedules and their impact on health.