BOCA RATON — Are NCCI employees taking advantage of the healthier fare now being offered in their corporate cafeteria, or are they opting for more traditional luncheon favorites high in fat, salt, and calories?
The answer? They’re doing both.
That was the conclusion drawn by a group of students from Palm Beach State College enrolled in an honors nutrition class who made NCCI a part of their weeks-long study. The project, created by their professor Dr. Judith Sharlin, required students to gather data through one-on-one interviews and observations of employees’ food preferences during lunch, which were then relayed in a final presentation. The project was titled: “What helps motivate people to eat healthier?”
NCCI was chosen because the Boca Raton-based company launched a multi-year wellness program that is now in its third year. As part of the program’s nutritional component, the company worked with food vendor Sodexo to offer fresh, healthy items at a discount in the cafeteria.
“We asked the students to help us find new ways to communicate about healthy choices,” said Sodexo Chef Billy Gray. “We’re working to encourage employees’ healthy eating and thought the students might bring a fresh perspective.” The healthier choices, which are labeled Your Health Your Way, are a big draw for employees, the students determined, especially since they are offered at a discounted price.
“The students’ observations were welcome because they provided additional confirmation that NCCI’s wellness mission is working,” said James Wolfe, NCCI’s director of administration. “The students made some very interesting observations while they were here at NCCI, and we were glad to host their research,” Wolfe said. “We welcomed their feedback and will certainly incorporate some of their suggestions.”
The students praised the cafeteria’s well-stocked salad bar, entrée station, and the way the chefs explain the ingredients and cooking methods. The employees are definitely responding well, the students concluded.
“I think the employees do appreciate what NCCI is doing in introducing the more nutritious foods, and they recognize the value,” said student Cesar Briones.