Eurest calls for more research into nutrition for night shift workers 

Contract caterer Eurest is calling for further research into how nutrition can better support night shift workers, following the publication of its new white paper, Catering for the night shift. 

Eurest, part of Compass Group UK & Ireland’s Business and Industry division, says food and beverage provision could play a stronger role in mitigating the health impacts associated with working alternative hours. 

According to the Office for National Statistics, 8.7 million people in the UK work at night, including those in factories, warehouses, retail, call centres and the public sector. Night working has been linked to increased risks of sleep disorders and poor mental and physical health, with Shift Work Sleep Disorder now recognised as a diagnosable condition. 

Ryan Holmes, Culinary Director at Eurest, said: “A healthy, nutritious diet that supports wellbeing is crucial for those who work shift patterns, and now is the right time to think about how we change the culture around catering provision to support them better.” 

Eurest’s white paper includes survey data from night shift workers alongside insights from nutritionists, wellbeing physiologists and academic researchers. It found that 78 per cent of respondents change their eating patterns to match their work and sleep schedules, while 48 per cent reported having only one break per night shift. 

The findings underline the growing role workplace catering can play in supporting employee health, resilience and wellbeing across the UK’s night-time economy.