Events & Healthy Options

It is not the norm to find healthy food options at group events and meetings.  As event planners, we have some control in the foods offered and can effect good change if and when better choices and healthier foods are offered.

I suggest that you start slow. Begin with little changes rather than go straight from donuts to fresh fruit - the shock will turn people against you.  For example, a group meets monthly in the morning with donuts and jumbo muffins, step 1: reduce the number of donuts , provide mini-muffins, granola bars, a small bowl of fresh fruit and make sure water is plentiful. Then, after a few meetings or as the group gets used to the changes in the menu, move to step 2: skip the donuts, reduce the number of muffins, add string cheese and increase the fruit.  After time, your people will learn to expect better choices on those mornings.

People, food is not needed at EVERY break. I can hear the gasps! A mid-morning or mid-afternoon physical activity break can happen in place of food. Provide a guided activity, or let people stretch, network, run to the restroom or check a blog.  Often, lunch is just around the corner.

Read below for other suggestions or take a look at this healthy food planning resource for group gatherings.

Anita, Reach Partners

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How to be the change

• Consider working with a dietitian to plan event menus. Healthy options are available at every price point and catering can accommodate for off-menu items that have higher nutritional value. 
• Ask catering to cut brownies in half or quarters, serve a small chicken breast; offer vinaigrette salad dressing on the side and skip the white dinner rolls. Often we eat them only because they are on the table.
• Preset nuts, trail mix or popcorn, people take less when a serving size is provided verses scooping out the trough.
• Offer icy-cold water instead of a pop selection. Use pitchers to save the planet too. Trust me, the person that needs a Diet Coke will find one. 
• Move it. Get people out of their chairs, provide standing stations (in the back of the room), provide a guided movement activity. Give them an adult recess to walk around the building.

Photo Credits: Donut, Apple