What Foods Do You Want to Eat at Work?

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A survey is coming your way.

You should fill it out because your responses will help shape food choices and culture at your worksite, from the snacks on your vending machine to the dishes and beverages served in your cafeteria.

Led by the Health and Human Services Agency in partnership with the Employee Wellness Program, the survey will assist in the development of the County’s Eat Well Standards:  nutrition criteria for all foods and beverages offered by the County. The Eat Well Standards are part of the County’s Food System Initiative, which plays a critical role in creating healthy, accessible and affordable choices.

The survey results will not be used in any way todictate what you eat or bring into the office for personal consumption. The survey takes about five minutes to complete. All responses are confidential.

“We are reaching out to employees to get their input on what foods and beverages they desire and what changes should be made,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer. “Their responses will help us develop the County’s Eat Well Standards.”

The short survey includes questions such as:

  • Does your worksite have a County-operated or leased cafeteria or café within walking distance or access to food and beverage vending?

  • Do you purchase food from the cafeteria or café?

  • Are the foods and beverages served at the cafeteria or café healthy?

  • Does the cafeteria or café promote and offer local or organic foods and beverages?

  • Does the cafeteria or café offer recyclable, compostable, or reusable plates, cups and silverware?

“The County’s vision is to have healthy, safe and thriving residents and communities. That vision starts with our employees,” said William Erese, County wellness coordinator. “The survey is a great opportunity for employees to let their voices be heard and help us achieve that vision.”

The survey will be available to employees until August 22. Employees with no access to a computer at work can get the survey link from their supervisors and complete it at home or using their smartphones.

For more information about the Eat Well Standards survey, contact JuliAnna Arnett, Food System Specialist for HHSA at JuliAnna.Arnett@sdcounty.ca.gov or (619) 692-8248.