Peas of Mind: Benefits of Plant-Forward Food in the Workplace

Looking to boost employee engagement and make your organization stand out? You may be overlooking a powerful tool for success — the foods fueling your workforce. 

“The future of food is plant-forward, and that's something that everyone should be excited about,” says Modern Recipe sustainability ambassador Eve Turow-Paul. As the founder and Executive Director of Food for Climate League and a nationally recognized thought leader on food trends, human needs and sustainability, Turow-Paul knows what she’s talking about — especially when it comes to workplace dining. 

Introducing plant-forward dining options can improve the energy, focus and mood of your employees. Plus, as more employees prioritize sustainable, health-conscious choices, plant-forward dining can both meet this demand and support broader corporate sustainability goals.  

What does “Plant-Forward” really mean? 

“Plant-forward means meals that nourish our bodies, minds and planet with more variety, more seasonal and local flavors, more textures, colors and flavor explorations,” Turow-Paul says. And that doesn’t mean eliminating animal products all together. “Plant-forward meals put plants — nuts, seeds, grains, legumes, vegetables and fruits — at the center of the plate, while using animal products for flavoring or as complementary components of the meal.”

Plant-Forward Misconceptions 

Let’s debunk some myths:

  1. “Plant-forward eating is bland”: Plant-forward can be incredibly flavorful! Think teriyaki tofu, creamy mashed sweet potato or a savory black bean burger.
  2. “Plant-forward eating doesn’t offer enough protein”: Plant foods like beans, lentils, quinoa and nuts are rich in protein. You can even buy plant-based protein supplements. 
  3. “Plant-forward eating means eliminating favorite foods”: Plant-forward eating just makes plants the main attraction, not the only attraction. Joy is a huge part of mealtime, and that should be true with plant-forward eating too! 

Good for Body, Mind and Team Spirit 

Plant-forward meals are packed with nutrients that our bodies love. They can even lower the risk of chronic diseases and give our bodies and brains the energy to be productive and creative all day. 

But did you know that plant-forward diets have a lighter environmental footprint compared to meat-heavy diets? This means that every plant-forward meal is a step toward your sustainability goals and commitment to your community, not to mention a greener, healthier planet.

Plant-Forward in Your Workplace

In Sodexo’s first International Food Barometer, nearly 80% of global respondents agreed that sustainable eating is critical, and options like plant-forward meals are more in demand than ever before. That’s why Modern Recipe offers healthy and sustainable, everyday delicious food options served in inviting spaces that foster creativity and collaboration. Our plant-forward menus boost employee wellness by keeping energy levels high, moods up, immune systems strong and minds sharp. Ingredients are sourced regionally, supporting local communities and corporate sustainability goals.

By incorporating plant-forward meals into workplace dining – while keeping fresh and delicious office favorites – you’re benefiting your teams, your business and the planet. Embrace the plant-forward future with us and discover a whole new way to eat well together – this is all day food for modern living.