Is it safe to eat at your desk?
Our desks are full of things that we touch often, but probably don’t clean often – keyboard,
phone and mouse, among others. Germs that make us sick can live on these surfaces.
The flu virus, for example, can survive on your desk for up to 48 hours! Eating at your
desk gives these germs a quick and easy ride into your body on your food and hands,
increasing your chances of getting sick. Crumbs left on your desk can also introduce new
germs and possibly unwanted pests.
Is it healthy to eat at your desk?
Limiting distractions and avoiding screens during meal time are good strategies for
mindful eating. Not only do distractions take away from the enjoyment of the meal, but
they also keep us from listening to our internal signals that let us know we are full, making
it easier to overeat. The time saved by multi-tasking at lunch may cost your health in the
long run.
Tips for a better meal
Invite a co-worker to lunch. Research suggests that eating together can improve
productivity and cooperation. Take advantage of your onsite cafeteria or other common
space. The change of scenery as well as the movement it takes to get there will both
offer benefits. If your desk is your only option for eating, make sure you clean it regularly
and wash your hands often. Give yourself a technology break while you eat to allow your
focus to be on enjoying your food and recognizing your hunger cues.
