Slovakia
From April 1, 2025, the meal allowance will increase again, this time to €8,80. Its amount is partly close to the real cost of lunch. The question is how much employees will actually receive from their employer.
The adjustment to the amount of the meal allowance is a response to higher catering costs, but it is debatable whether this further increase will really help employees cover their daily lunch costs.
The data and figures speak for themselves: lunch prices are constantly rising. In 2024, we experienced significant price increases in restaurants and canteens throughout Slovakia, with the average price of a lunch menu in several regions exceeding the new food allowance of 8,80 euros. This means that even after the increase, employees will have to pay extra for lunches.
Prices are rising across the country
Data shows that employees are increasingly paying for lunches, and in several regions, average lunch payments have already exceeded the new optimal meal allowance of €8,80. So, despite the legislative change, employees will have to pay for lunches out of their own pocket. "Employees need adequate meal benefits that allow them to eat a full meal without putting a significant strain on their budget," pointed out Lívia Bachratá, Director of Public Affairs at Edenred.
Although the average cost of lunch varies by region, the same scenario is evident across all regions – food is more expensive and people are spending more on it. This forces employees to choose cheaper, but less nutritious lunch options, or pay extra out of their own pocket in an effort to maintain a healthy, balanced and nutritious diet.
Saving on food reduces productivity
Many employers only pay their employees the minimum statutory amount of maintenance. From April 1, this will be €6,60. We are aware that employers are currently facing an even more difficult time than in the past, but the consequences of consolidation and price increases have also affected employees.
It is true that if employees do not have sufficient funds for quality lunches, this can have a negative impact not only on their health, but also on their work performance. "Employers who provide higher meal allowances not only give their employees the opportunity for quality meals, but also send a signal that they care about their well-being and health," L. Bachratá is convinced.
Other experts also say it is important to pay attention to how diet affects employees' work performance. "Proper nutrition has a direct impact on an employee's concentration, energy, and overall health. If a person cannot afford quality food, it can lead to fatigue, lack of energy, and reduced work efficiency," continues the Director of Public Affairs at Edenred. The question remains whether the legislation should be changed so that the minimum amount of the meal allowance is closer to the actual cost of food, or whether the decision on the amount of the meal allowance will be solely up to employers. They still have the opportunity to provide their employees with adequate financial resources if they want their employees to be healthy, satisfied and productive.
