Workforce Nutrition Programmes (WNPs) are workplace-based health and nutrition initiatives that address undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and rising obesity, especially among vulnerable workers in low- and middle-income countries. Beyond improving employee health, WNPs have the potential to benefit businesses through reduced absenteeism, lower staff turnover, higher productivity, improved company reputation, and reduced healthcare costs.
A joint study by GAIN and IDS explored the business case for WNPs in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). While data collection proved challenging due to sensitivity around productivity and cost information, the study identified six pathways linking WNPs to positive business outcomes and offered key lessons: the importance of senior management buy-in, company-led data collection, and realistic approaches to gathering evidence.
Future research should focus on worker-level data, robust study designs (RCTs or quasi-experimental approaches), and clear agreements with participating companies. WNPs represent not just a social good but a strategic business investment that strengthens employee well-being and company performance.
