Calories Purchased by Hospital Employees After Implementation of a Cafeteria Traffic Light–Labeling and Choice Architecture Program

Abstract

Key Points Question Is a workplace program to promote healthy food choices using traffic light labels and choice architecture (product placement) changes associated with sustained reduction in calories purchased by employees? Findings This cohort study of 5695 hospital employees who used the workplace cafeteria found that implementation of a traffic light–labeling and choice architecture program was associated with a 6.2% decrease in calories per transaction over 2 years, including a 23.0% decrease in calories from the least healthy foods. Meaning Workplace point-of-purchase programs to promote healthy food choices could help improve dietary intake and prevent weight gain in employee populations.