Are you tired of the same old lunch while working from home? Shake things up by ordering lunch from delivery services! With so many options, you can eat deliciously without leaving your desk. This article will discuss the benefits of ordering lunch, tips for healthy choices, and how to save money. Goodbye boring lunches, hello convenient and fun!
Maximize productivity and employee well-being in your remote workforce.
Food Delivery Working From Home: Quick Links
Ordering lunch from delivery services saves time and lets you focus on work or other things.
Choose nutritious dishes with lean protein, whole grains, and fruits/vegetables.
Plan lunch breaks by meal prepping, scheduling breaks in advance, and setting boundaries with work.
Compare prices, use meal prepping, and take advantage of promotions and discounts to save money on lunch delivery.
Benefits of Planning and Ordering Lunch From Delivery Services
When working from home, you can enjoy the benefits of convenient meal solutions from meal delivery services because they provide time-saving convenience and a variety of cuisines. Instead of spending time cooking a meal or going out to pick up food, you can order online and have meals delivered to your doorstep. This allows you to order lunch conveniently while working, giving you the flexibility to choose meal times and manage dietary preferences. That saves you time to focus on work or other things. Plus, delivery services offer many options to suit your taste and preferences.
Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, sushi, or Indian curry, you can find a delivery service that offers your favorite cuisine. This means you can try new flavors and dishes without leaving your home. For a remote team, selecting reliable food delivery services that cater to various dietary restrictions ensures satisfaction and convenience for all members. Now that you know the benefits of ordering lunch from delivery services remember to choose nutritious options. By being mindful and following simple tips, you can have a convenient and healthy lunch.
Ordering Lunch From Delivery Services When Working from Home
The increasing prevalence of remote work has significantly impacted various industries, and the food delivery sector is no exception. With more people working from home offices, the demand for convenient and efficient lunch solutions has skyrocketed. Food delivery services have emerged as a popular option for those seeking to maintain productivity and enjoy a satisfying midday meal without interrupting their workflow.
The Rise of Food Delivery Services
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, food delivery apps and services were experiencing annual growth of approximately 7% to 8%. However, the pandemic caused a significant surge in demand, with Australia experiencing the most notable increase. This growth was largely driven by millennials and Gen Z consumers who value the convenience of prepared meals. In fact, roughly 57% of Americans prefer to order delivery or takeout, while 43% prefer to dine in at restaurants. Consumers prefer ordering delivery or takeout for five main reasons:
It’s enjoyable to eat at home (76%)
Convenience (75%)
Ability to watch TV or movies (50%)
Don’t have to cook (49%)
Can wear comfortable clothes (32%)
Furthermore, the online food delivery market is projected to grow annually by 13% from 2023 to 2027, highlighting the continued expansion and relevance of this industry. The food delivery market share is currently valued at $221.65 billion, with the US being the second-largest market after China.
Usage Statistics
While precise data on food delivery service usage, specifically for lunch by people working from home in the USA and Canada, is limited, available research suggests a strong trend. A 2023 study by Toast found that 75% of remote workers in the USA order lunch out at least once a week, with 31% doing so at least three times per week . This highlights the significant reliance on food delivery services among this demographic.
Interestingly, most food delivery customers are around 22 years old, and young adults order food delivery twice a week . This suggests that younger generations are particularly drawn to the convenience and accessibility of food delivery services.
Further research indicates that the average number of meals purchased using online food delivery services (OFDS) nearly doubled between 2018 and 2021 in countries like Australia, Canada, Mexico, the UK, and the US . This suggests a growing preference for food delivery over traditional methods of obtaining meals outside the home.
Impact on Health and Productivity
While the convenience of food delivery services is undeniable, it’s essential to consider their potential impact on health and productivity. Whether employees are working from home or in office, the ease of ordering in can sometimes lead to impulsive food choices, potentially contributing to unhealthy eating habits and weight gain. However, other research indicates that working from home can lead to improved diet quality, with increased consumption of vegetables, fruits, and dairy products. This improvement may be attributed to the increased flexibility and control over meal times that working from home offers. Individuals have more time to prepare healthy meals or make conscious choices when ordering from food delivery services, including healthy meal options.
Despite the potential for unhealthy choices, employer-provided meal programs, which often include food delivery options, can positively impact employee well-being and performance. A study by DoorDash found that 91% of employees receiving meal benefits reported satisfaction with their jobs, compared to 78% who were satisfied without meal benefits. Moreover, 79% of employees feel more productive and 72% report improved mental health when provided with meal benefits. This suggests that investing in employee well-being through food delivery can lead to long-term benefits for companies.
Interestingly, research also indicates that food delivery services can contribute to a reduction in time spent on housework, specifically by approximately 11.8 minutes per day. This time-saving aspect can be particularly valuable for busy professionals working from home, allowing them to focus on their work and personal life.
Furthermore, studies have shown that the introduction of online food delivery platforms can have positive effects on narrowing the gender gap in labor supply and well-being. By reducing the time and effort required for meal preparation, these services can free up time for individuals, particularly women, to pursue other activities, including work and leisure.
Boost Employee Productivity
Boosting employee productivity is crucial for businesses, especially those with remote employees. One effective way to achieve this is by getting meals delivered that cater to their dietary needs and preferences. By offering meal credits or gift cards to popular food delivery services like Uber Eats, businesses can encourage remote employees to take breaks and recharge. This, in turn, can lead to increased focus, creativity, and overall productivity. Additionally, providing food delivery options through corporate meal programs can significantly enhance employee satisfaction.
Moreover, food delivery can also significantly support local restaurants and promote team building. By ordering food from local restaurants, remote employees can feel more connected to their community and colleagues. This sense of camaraderie and shared experience can be particularly valuable in a remote work environment, fostering a stronger team spirit.
To boost employee productivity, businesses can consider implementing the following strategies:
Offer Meal Credits or Gift Cards: Providing meal credits or gift cards to popular food delivery services can be a great perk for remote employees. It not only ensures they have access to nutritious meals but also shows that the company cares about their well-being.
Provide a Variety of Food Options: Catering to different dietary needs and preferences is essential. Ensure that the food delivery options include a range of cuisines and dishes that accommodate various dietary restrictions.
Encourage Breaks and Recharging: Encourage remote employees to take regular breaks and use food delivery services to enjoy a proper meal. This can help them recharge and return to work with renewed energy.
Support Local Restaurants: Promote ordering from local restaurants to support the community. This can also create a sense of connection among remote employees, knowing they are contributing to the local economy.
Promote Team Building: Use food delivery as a tool for virtual team-building activities. Organize virtual lunch meetings where everyone orders from the same restaurant or cuisine, creating a shared experience.
By implementing these strategies, businesses can enhance the productivity and well-being of their remote employees, while also supporting local restaurants and fostering a sense of team unity.
Healthy food delivery in zero waste containers.
Tips for Healthy Options
Follow these tips to choose nutritious meals when ordering lunch from delivery services. First, choose healthy choices from the menu. Look for dishes with lean protein, whole grains, and many fruits and vegetables. Avoid fried or highly processed dishes as they are high in unhealthy fats and sodium.
Another tip is to customize your order. Many delivery services allow you to modify your meal so take advantage of that. Ask for sauces and dressings on the side, choose steamed or grilled options instead of fried and ask for extra vegetables or a side salad instead of fries.
Meal prepping can also be a great way to have healthy lunch options. Set aside some time each week to plan and prep your meals in advance. That way, you can control the ingredients and portion sizes, and sticking to a healthy eating plan will be easier.
Lastly, pay attention to portion sizes. Delivery services often serve large portions, which can lead to overeating. Consider sharing a meal with a family member or saving half for later to avoid overindulging.
Food delivery service, courier giving office employee order
How Remote Employees Can Use Their Lunch Break Wisely
To use your lunch breaks wisely, consider time management strategies that allow you to be productive while taking a break from work. One of them is meal prepping. Meal planning is crucial for saving time during lunch breaks. By prepping your meals in advance, you can save time during your lunch break and avoid the hassle of deciding what to eat. Spend some time on the weekends or the night before to cook and portion out your weekly meals. Then, when it’s lunch time, you just need to reheat your prepped meal and enjoy it.
Another time management technique is to schedule your lunch break. Set a specific time for your break and stick to it. That will create a routine and ensure you have regular breaks throughout the day. Also, set boundaries with your work. Don’t let yourself work through lunch, and make it a habit to step away from your desk during your break. By doing these time management tricks, you can make the most of your lunch break and recharge for the rest of the day.
Now that you know how to plan your lunch breaks wisely, let’s talk about how to save money on lunch delivery.
Groceries delivery via Uber Eats
How to Save Money on Lunch Delivery
One way to save money on lunch from delivery services is to compare prices from different delivery services. You can also order food from various platforms like Uber Eats to enjoy the convenience and benefits of meal delivery. Take the time to research and compare the prices offered by various delivery platforms. Look for budget-friendly options and deals that can help you save money. Another way is to meal prep. By prepping your meals in advance, you can avoid daily delivery services and their associated costs. Plan your weekly meals, cook in bulk, and portion them into individual containers. That will save you money and give you more control over your meals’ ingredients and nutritional content.
Another tip is to look out for promotions, discount codes, and discounts from delivery services. Many platforms have special offers or promo codes to help you save on your lunch orders. Watch out for those and make the most of it to stretch your lunch budget. Remember to be aware of the delivery fees and service charges that will be added to your order. Those can add up quickly and affect the total cost of your lunch delivery. By being aware of those charges and comparing prices you can make smart decisions to save money on your lunch delivery while working from home.
Dietary Restrictions and Allergies
When ordering lunch from delivery services while working from home, make sure to consider your special dietary needs, dietary restrictions, or allergies. As a remote employee, it’s crucial to maintain a balance between personal and professional life, which includes managing your dietary needs effectively. Meal prepping can be a great way to ensure that you have control over what goes into your lunch. By prepping your meals in advance you can easily accommodate your dietary needs and avoid allergens. Start by researching recipes that align with your restrictions and preferences. Healthy eating can be maintained by considering dietary restrictions and making informed choices.
Look for alternatives for ingredients you can’t consume. For example, you can substitute dairy milk with almond or soy milk if you’re lactose intolerant. When ordering from delivery services, communicate your dietary restrictions. Most delivery platforms have a special requests section where you can specify your allergies or dietary restrictions. Also, double-check the ingredients of the dishes you are ordering to ensure they are safe for you. That way, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying lunch while following your dietary restrictions and allergies.
The food delivery industry has transformed how remote teams approach lunchtime
Flexible Meal Solutions
Flexible meal solutions are essential for a remote team who work in different locations and time zones. With the rise of remote work, companies seek ways to support their employees’ food needs, regardless of location. One practical approach is to offer meal credits or gift cards that can be used to order food from local restaurants or meal delivery platforms. This allows remote employees to choose from various food options but also supports local restaurants, fostering a sense of community.
Food delivery services like Uber Eats can be a game-changer for virtual teams. They provide a convenient way for remote employees to order lunch, even if scattered across different locations. This can be particularly useful for virtual team-building activities, where everyone can enjoy a meal together, creating a shared experience despite the physical distance.
When implementing flexible meal solutions, it’s crucial to consider dietary restrictions and preferences. Various food options, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary-specific choices, ensure that all remote employees can access meals that meet their needs. This inclusivity can significantly enhance employee satisfaction and well-being.
In addition to meal credits and food delivery services, companies can also provide pantry staples like olive oil to their remote employees. This small gesture can help employees cook healthy meals at home, adding a touch of comfort and support to their daily routine.
Overall, flexible meal solutions are a fantastic way for companies to support their remote employees. By offering meal credits, utilizing food delivery services, and considering dietary restrictions, companies can help their remote teams feel connected and valued, even when not in the office.
Summary
Ordering lunch from delivery services while working from home means convenience, variety, and healthy options. Remote lunches can foster team connections and enhance company culture among remote employees. Planning your lunch break and considering dietary restrictions or allergies will give you a satisfying and healthy meal. Also, saving money on lunch delivery will help you stay within your budget. So why not take advantage of these and treat yourself to a yummy and hassle-free lunch at home? Bon appétit!
Food delivery trends have shown that the industry has grown tremendously recently, with companies like DoorDash and Uber Eats becoming increasingly common. Virtual teams benefit greatly from these services, providing flexible meal options and logistical solutions for remote employees. In 2025, the industry continues to expand, with new companies entering the market and existing companies broadening their services. This updated guide to lunch delivery services provides valuable and relevant information for Canadian and USA readers, optimized for the 2025 marketplace.
Top Food Delivery Services in the US
In 2025, these are the top food delivery services in the US:
DoorDash
Grubhub
Uber Eats
Postmates
Instacart
GoPuff
Imperfect Foods
Home Chef
ChowNow
Tovala
These services offer various options to suit different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for restaurant, grocery, or meal kit delivery, there’s a service for you.
Top Food Delivery Services in Canada
In Canada, the food delivery landscape is a bit different. While major US players, like DoorDash and Uber Eats, are also popular in Canada, there are a few key differences. Here are the top food delivery services in Canada in 2025:
SkipTheDishes
DoorDash
Uber Eats
Grubhub
Tim Hortons
Instacart
Postmates
Additionally, Instacart is notable for its grocery delivery services.
Cost, Delivery Time, and Selection
Service (US/Canada)
Cost
Delivery Time
Selection
Minimum Order Value
DoorDash
Delivery fees vary by restaurant, typically $0.99 – $7.99. Service fees also apply.
25-40 minutes on average.
Wide variety of restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience stores.
$12
Grubhub
Delivery fees vary by restaurant. Service fees also apply.
Delivery times vary by restaurant.
Same-day delivery is available.
$10
Uber Eats
Delivery fees vary by restaurant. Service fees also apply.
25-40 minutes on average.
Wide variety of restaurants and grocery stores.
$15 for non-grocery, $35 for grocery
Postmates
Delivery fees vary by restaurant, typically $1.99 – $9.99. Service fees also apply.
Delivery times vary by restaurant, typically within an hour.
Wide variety of restaurants, grocery stores, and retailers.
No minimum
Instacart
Delivery fees start at $3.99 for same-day orders over $35.
$50.95 for the Home Chef Plan, $82.91 for Family Plan
Groceries, alcohol, and other essentials from various stores.
No minimum
Gopuff
Delivery fee of $3.95.
30 minutes on average.
Snacks, drinks, household essentials, and more.
No minimum
Imperfect Foods
Delivery fees start at $5.99.
Delivery day is assigned based on zip code.
Groceries, including produce, pantry staples, and meat and seafood.
$15
Home Chef
Shipping fee of $10.99.
Weekly deliveries Sunday through Friday.
Meal kits with pre-portioned ingredients and recipes.
$50.95 for Home Chef Plan, $82.91 for Family Plan
ChowNow
No delivery fees for customers. Restaurants pay a monthly fee.
Delivery times vary by restaurant.
Online ordering platform for restaurants.
$10
Tovala
Shipping fee of $9.99 (free on orders of 6 meals or more).
Meals arrive the week after ordering.
Meal kits designed for the Tovala Smart Oven.
4 meals per week
Thrive Market
$5.95 shipping for groceries (free over $49), $19.95 for frozen (free over $120), $13.95 for wine (free over $79)
Most orders arrive within 4-6 days.
Organic and non-GMO groceries, personal care, household essentials, and more.
$49 for groceries, $120 for frozen foods, $79 for wine
It’s important to note that these are just estimates, and the actual cost, delivery time, and selection may vary depending on your location and the specific restaurant or store you’re ordering from. Gopuff stands out for its speed, promising delivery in 30 minutes or less. Tovala requires the purchase of a Tovala Smart Oven.
DashPass
DoorDash offers a subscription service called DashPass. For $9.99 per month, DashPass subscribers get unlimited $0 delivery fees on orders over $15 from participating restaurants.
GoPuff FAM
GoPuff has a membership program called FAM. For $7.99 per month, FAM members get free delivery on all orders, plus access to exclusive deals and discounts.
Grubhub Guarantee
Grubhub offers the Grubhub Guarantee to enhance customer satisfaction. This guarantee ensures that customers get the lowest price and on-time delivery. If an order arrives late or a customer finds a lower price for the same order elsewhere, Grubhub will compensate them.
Reviews
Here’s an overview of user feedback and customer reviews for each service:
DoorDash: DoorDash has many restaurants and offers fast delivery times. However, some customers have reported issues with order accuracy and customer service.
Grubhub: Grubhub is known for its extensive network of restaurants and user-friendly platform. However, some customers have reported issues with high commission fees and long delivery times.
Uber Eats: Uber Eats offers various restaurants and delivers quickly. However, some customers have reported inaccurate delivery times and poor customer service.
Postmates: Postmates is known for its diverse offerings, including food, groceries, and other essentials. However, some customers have reported issues with high prices and long delivery times.
Instacart: Instacart offers same-day delivery from stores, including Costco and ALDI. However, some customers have reported issues with inaccurate delivery estimates and high prices.
Gopuff: Gopuff delivers snacks, drinks, and household essentials quickly and conveniently. However, some customers have reported inaccurate delivery times and high prices.
Imperfect Foods: Imperfect Foods focuses on reducing food waste by offering imperfect and surplus groceries. However, some customers have reported issues with limited selection and delivery problems.
Home Chef: Home Chef offers meal kits with pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes. However, some customers have reported issues with ingredient freshness and high sodium content in some meals.
ChowNow: ChowNow provides restaurants with a commission-free online ordering platform. However, some customers have reported issues with limited customization options and website glitches.
Tovala: Tovala offers meal kits designed for the Tovala Smart Oven, which perfectly cooks meals with minimal prep. However, some customers have reported issues with the oven’s high cost and limited dietary options.
Thrive Market: Thrive Market offers a wide selection of organic and non-GMO products, competitive pricing, and convenient delivery. However, some customers have reported issues with limited product variety and occasional inaccuracies in membership fees.
Promotions and Deals
Most food delivery services offer special offers, promotions, and deals to attract new customers and keep existing customers happy. These can include free delivery, discounts on your first order, and other incentives. Here are a few examples of current promotions:
DoorDash: 50% off your first order over $15.
Grubhub: Free delivery on your first order.
Uber Eats: $15 off your first order over $20.
Postmates: $10 off your first order.
Instacart: Free delivery on your first three orders.
GoPuff: 50% off your first order.
Imperfect Foods: 40% off your first order.
Home Chef: 75% off your first box.
ChowNow: 35% off your first order.
Tovala: $200 off meal plan subscriptions.
Thrive Market: 30% off your first order and a free gift.
It’s essential to check the terms and conditions of each promotion before you order, as some may have restrictions or limitations.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to consumers, and many food delivery services are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact. Here are a few examples of sustainability practices:
DoorDash: Offers bike delivery options, invests in carbon removal technology, and partners with organizations to advocate for sustainable policies.
Grubhub: Supports the Food Donation Improvement Act, partners with food rescue organizations, and encourages restaurants to use recyclable or compostable containers.
Uber Eats: Aims to be a zero-emission platform by 2040, offers green delivery options, and helps merchants access sustainable packaging.
Imperfect Foods: Reduces food waste by sourcing imperfect and surplus groceries, uses recyclable packaging, and donates to food banks.
Thrive Market: Is Climate Neutral Certified, uses ground-only shipping and invests in regenerative agriculture.
Customer Service
Most food delivery services offer customer support through various channels, such as phone, email, and chat. Here’s a quick overview of customer service options:
DoorDash: Offers 24/7 customer support via chat and phone.
Grubhub: Offers 24/7 customer support via phone and email.
Uber Eats: Offers 24/7 customer support via chat, message, and telephone.
Postmates: Offers customer support via phone and email.
Instacart: Offers customer support via live chat, phone, and email.
Gopuff: Offers customer support via its Help Center and the Gopuff app.
Imperfect Foods: Offers customer support via email and live chat.
Home Chef: Offers customer support via phone and email.
ChowNow: Offers 24/7 customer support via phone, email, and chat.
Tovala: Offers customer support via email and telephone.
Thrive Market: Offers customer support via email and chat.
Synthesis and Conclusion
The meal delivery industry in 2025 offers a wide range of delivery options for consumers in both the US and Canada. Whether you’re looking for convenience, affordability, or sustainability, a service exists to meet your needs. When choosing a food delivery service, it’s essential to consider cost, delivery time, selection, reviews, promotions, sustainability practices, and customer service. You can find the right service for you by carefully evaluating these factors.
Here’s a breakdown of some key trends and insights:
Market Leaders: DoorDash dominates the US market, while SkipTheDishes leads in Canada. These services generally offer the widest selection and best coverage.
Speed and Convenience: Gopuff stands out for its focus on quick delivery, making it a good choice for those who need items urgently.
Sustainability: Imperfect Foods and Thrive Market lead the way in sustainability, offering imperfect or surplus groceries and using eco-friendly packaging.
Meal Kits: Home Chef and Tovala offer meal kits with pre-portioned ingredients, making home cooking easier and more convenient. However, Tovala requires the purchase of a special oven.
Customization: Hungryroot allows users to customize their meals by swapping ingredients or adjusting portions.
The food delivery industry is becoming increasingly competitive, with companies offering various features and promotions to attract customers. You can find the service that best fits your lifestyle and budget by carefully considering your needs and preferences.
