Are you tired of the same old lunch while working from home? Shake things up by ordering lunch from delivery services! With numerous options, you can enjoy a delicious meal without leaving your desk. This article will discuss the benefits of ordering lunch, provide tips for making healthy choices, and offer suggestions on how to save money. Goodbye boring lunches, hello convenient and fun!
Maximize productivity and employee well-being in your remote workforce.
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, which 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, providing flexibility to choose meal times and accommodate dietary preferences. That saves you time to focus on work or other things. Additionally, delivery services offer a variety of 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 a few simple tips, you can enjoy 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 primarily driven by millennials and Gen Z consumers who value the convenience of prepared meals. 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 at an annual rate of 13% from 2023 to 2027, underscoring 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 a 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 typically 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 such as 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 the 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 suggests that working from home can lead to an improved diet quality, characterized by 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 that offer healthy meal options.
Despite the potential for unhealthy choices, employer-provided meal programs, which often include food delivery options, can have a positive impact on 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, enabling them to balance their work and personal life more effectively.
Furthermore, studies have shown that the introduction of online food delivery platforms can have a positive impact on narrowing the gender gap in labor supply and improving 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, such as 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 an excellent employee benefit for remote workers. 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 diverse range of cuisines and dishes that cater to 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 foster a sense of connection among remote employees, as they know 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, select healthy choices from the menu. Look for dishes that include lean protein, whole grains, and a variety of 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, making it easier to stick to a healthy eating plan.
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, a courier giving an office employee her 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 meals for the week. Then, when it’s lunchtime, you simply 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 employing these time management techniques, you can maximize 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, such as Uber Eats, to enjoy the convenience and benefits of meal delivery. Take the time to research and compare the prices offered by multiple 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 for easy preparation. That will save you money and give you more control over the ingredients and nutritional content of your meals.
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 them to stretch your lunch budget. Please note that delivery fees and service charges 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 nutritional 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. Maintaining a healthy diet can be achieved by considering nutritional 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 a delivery service, please 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 crucial for a remote team that operates in various locations and time zones. With the rise of remote work, companies are seeking ways to support their employees’ food needs, regardless of their 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, such as 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 accommodating dietary restrictions, companies can help their remote teams feel connected and valued, even when they are 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 experienced tremendous growth recently, with companies like DoorDash and Uber Eats becoming increasingly prevalent. Virtual teams greatly benefit from these services, which provide flexible meal options and logistical solutions for remote employees. In 2025, the industry is expected to continue expanding, 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 US readers, optimized for the 2025 marketplace.
US Meal and Grocery Delivery Services: Cost, Delivery Time, and Selection
When you’re looking for a convenient way to get your meals or groceries, various services offer different perks. Understanding their cost, delivery time, and selection can help you pick the best fit for your needs.
| Service (US/Canada) | Cost | Delivery Time | Selection | Minimum Order Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DoorDash | Delivery fees typically $0.99 – $7.99, plus service fees. | 25-40 minutes on average. | Varies by restaurant. Same-day delivery is available. | $12 |
| Grubhub | A wide variety of restaurants and grocery stores. | Delivery fees vary by restaurant, as well as service fees. | Wide variety of restaurants. | $10 |
| Uber Eats | Delivery fees vary by restaurant, plus service fees. | 25-40 minutes on average. | A wide variety of restaurants, grocery stores, and retailers. | $15 (non-grocery), $35 (grocery) |
| Postmates | Delivery fees typically $1.99 – $9.99, plus service fees. | Varies by restaurant, typically within an hour. | Delivery fees start at $3.99 for orders over $35 placed for same-day delivery. | No minimum |
| Instacart | Delivery fees start at $3.99 for same-day orders over $35. | Varies by store. | 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. | 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 (Home Chef Plan), $82.91 (Family Plan) |
| ChowNow | No delivery fees for customers (restaurants pay a monthly fee). | Varies 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 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 (groceries), $120 (frozen), $79 (wine) |
Important Notes:
- These are estimates, and actual costs, delivery times, and selection can differ based on your location and the specific restaurant or store.
- Gopuff is known for its speed, often delivering in 30 minutes or less.
- Tovala meal kits are specifically designed for use with their Tovala Smart Oven, which must be purchased separately.
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 a range of options to suit various needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a restaurant, grocery, or meal kit delivery, there’s a service for you.
Top Food Delivery Services in Canada (2025): Cost, Delivery Time, and Selection
The food delivery scene in Canada has its unique flavour. Major international players, such as DoorDash and Uber Eats, are widely used, but local services also hold significant ground. Understanding their cost, delivery time, and selection can help you make the best choice for your next meal or grocery run.
Here are some of the top food delivery services available in Canada in 2025:
- SkipTheDishes
- DoorDash
- Uber Eats
- Grubhub
- Tim Hortons (for their menu items)
- Instacart
- Postmates (often integrated with Uber Eats in Canada)
And here’s a detailed breakdown of their key features:
| Service (Canada) | Cost | Delivery Time | Selection | Minimum Order Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SkipTheDishes | Delivery fees typically range from $0 to $5.99, plus service fees. | Varies by restaurant and location. | Vast selection of restaurants and cuisines, including local partnerships. | Varies by restaurant |
| DoorDash | A wide variety of restaurants and grocery stores. | 25-40 minutes on average. | Delivery fees typically $0.99 – $7.99, plus service fees. It can be higher during peak hours. | $12 (CAD, generally) |
| Uber Eats | Delivery fees typically $0 – $8, plus service fees. Varies by distance and restaurant. | 25-40 minutes on average. | Wide variety of restaurants and grocery stores. | $15 (non-grocery), $35 (grocery) (CAD, generally) |
| Grubhub | A wide variety of restaurants, grocery stores, and retailers. (Often integrated into Uber Eats services in Canada). | Delivery fees vary by restaurant, as well as service fees. | Wide range of local restaurant options. | $10 (CAD, generally) |
| Tim Hortons | Delivery fees typically range from $1.99 to $5.99, plus applicable service fees from the platform. | Varies. | Tim Hortons menu items. | Varies by location/platform |
| Instacart | Delivery fees generally range from $3.99 to $9.99, depending on order size and delivery time. (Free over $35 for same-day orders). | Same-day delivery, often within an hour. | Groceries, alcohol, and other essentials from various partnered stores (e.g., Costco, Walmart, Metro). | No minimum (though fees may apply below certain thresholds) |
| Postmates | Delivery fees typically range from $1.99 to $3.99 for standard deliveries, with additional service fees. | Varies by restaurant, typically within an hour. | Wide variety of restaurants, grocery stores, and retailers. (Often integrated into Uber Eats services in Canada). | No minimum |
Essential Considerations for Canada:
- These are estimates, and actual costs, delivery times, and selection can vary based on your specific location in Canada (e.g., urban vs. rural), the time of day, and the particular restaurant or store you’re ordering from.
- Keep an eye out for subscription services like DoorDash’s DashPass or Uber One, which can offer free delivery and discounts for a monthly fee.
- Instacart is particularly notable in Canada for its strong focus on grocery delivery from a wide range of local and national grocery chains.
- Some services may offer promotional deals for new users, such as free delivery or a percentage off your first order.
Member Benefits & Loyalty Programs
Many food delivery services offer subscription or loyalty programs that can save you money and provide exclusive benefits.
| Program | Service | Cost (per month) | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| DashPass | DoorDash | $9.99 | Unlimited $0 delivery fees on orders over $15 from participating restaurants. |
| GoPuff FAM | Gopuff | $7.99 | Free delivery on all orders, exclusive deals and discounts. |
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Grubhub Guarantee
Grubhub aims to boost customer satisfaction with its Grubhub Guarantee. This program ensures you get the lowest price and on-time delivery. If your order arrives late or if you find a lower price for the same order elsewhere, Grubhub will compensate you.
User Feedback and Reviews
Here’s a summary of common user feedback and customer reviews for each service:
| Service | Positives | Common Reported Issues |
|---|---|---|
| DoorDash | Inaccurate delivery times and poor customer service. | High commission fees for restaurants and long delivery times. |
| Grubhub | Extensive restaurant network, user-friendly platform. | A wide range of restaurants with fast delivery times. |
| Uber Eats | Diverse restaurant selection, quick delivery. | Inaccurate delivery estimates and high prices. |
| Postmates | Diverse offerings (food, groceries, essentials). | High prices, long delivery times. |
| Instacart | Same-day delivery from major stores (e.g., Costco, ALDI). | Quick and convenient delivery of snacks, drinks, and household essentials. |
| Gopuff | Ingredient freshness and high sodium content in some meals. | Inaccurate delivery times, high prices. |
| Imperfect Foods | Reduces food waste by sourcing imperfect/surplus groceries. | Limited selection, delivery problems. |
| Home Chef | Meal kits are designed for perfect cooking with the Tovala Smart Oven, with minimal prep. | Meal kits with pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes. |
| ChowNow | Commission-free platform for restaurants. | Limited customization options, website glitches. |
| Tovala | Wide selection of organic/non-GMO products, competitive pricing, and convenient delivery. | High cost of the oven, limited dietary options. |
| Thrive Market | Wide selection of organic/non-GMO products, competitive pricing, convenient delivery. | Limited product variety, occasional inaccuracies in membership fees. |
Promotions and Deals
Most food delivery services offer special promotions and deals to attract and retain customers. These can include free delivery, discounts on your first order, and other incentives. Always check the terms and conditions of each promotion, as some may have restrictions or limitations.
Here are examples of typical promotions you might encounter:
- 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.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability is increasingly important to consumers, and many food delivery services are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact.
- 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 multiple channels, including phone, email, and live chat.
| Service | Customer Support Channels |
|---|---|
| DoorDash | 24/7 via chat and phone. |
| Grubhub | 24/7 via phone and email. |
| Uber Eats | 24/7 via chat, message, and telephone. |
| Postmates | Via phone and email. |
| Instacart | Via live chat, phone, and email. |
| Gopuff | Via its Help Center and the Gopuff app. |
| Imperfect Foods | Via email and live chat. |
| Home Chef | Via phone and email. |
| ChowNow | 24/7 via phone, email, and chat. |
| Tovala | Via email and telephone. |
| Thrive Market | Via email and chat. |
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Synthesis and Conclusion
The meal and grocery delivery industry in 2025 offers a wide range of options for consumers in both the US and Canada. Whether you’re looking for convenience, affordability, or sustainability, there’s a service designed to meet your needs. When choosing a food delivery service, it’s essential to consider:
- Cost
- Delivery Time
- Selection
- User Reviews
- Available Promotions
- Sustainability Practices
- Customer Service
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can determine the right service that suits your lifestyle and budget.
Key Trends and Insights:
- Market Leaders: DoorDash generally dominates the US market, while SkipTheDishes leads in Canada. These services often provide the widest selection and best coverage.
- Speed and Convenience: Gopuff stands out for its focus on rapid delivery, making it ideal for those needing items urgently.
- Sustainability: Imperfect Foods and Thrive Market are leaders in sustainability, offering imperfect or surplus groceries and utilizing eco-friendly packaging.
- Meal Kits: Home Chef and Tovala offer meal kits with pre-portioned ingredients, making home cooking easier. However, remember that Tovala requires the purchase of a specific smart oven.
- Customization: Some services, such as Hungryroot (although not detailed above), allow users to customize their meals by swapping ingredients or adjusting portions.
The food delivery industry is becoming increasingly competitive, with companies continuously introducing new features and promotions to attract customers.
