Research has revealed the average construction worker is eating more than 1,500 calories over the recommended daily allowance…
An investigation into the eating habits of construction workers has revealed on average many will eat more than 1,500 calories over the recommended daily allowance.
The research, carried out by trade insurance specialist Constructaquote.com, polled 2,194 male construction workers over the age of 18 across different parts of the UK. It forms part of ongoing research into trends surrounding the construction industry.
The firm used the data to discern how healthy construction workers are in comparison to more stationary and less active jobs.
Respondents were asked how much food they ate during a typical working day and to estimate how many calories they consumed. The average response revealed 4,050 calories. The recommended daily amount for men currently stands at 2,500, meaning many are eating over 1,500 calories more than they should be.
However, despite admitting to serious overeating less than one fifth (19 per cent) of workers considered themselves to be overweight. The majority considered themselves as healthy or underweight.
Of the top foods consumed, the most common was breakfast baguettes at 64 per cent. Meat pies and pastries came in at 51 per cent, burger and chips at 48 per cent, and an English fry-up at 35 per cent.
Only 17 per cent of respondents said they commonly ate sandwiches while at work and only four per cent regularly consumed salads.
A total of 71 per cent said they frequently ate unhealthy foods during work hours. More than half (51 per cent) admitted this was because they had difficulty accessing healthy options, but 22 per cent said this was a result of being “lazy” with their diet.
CEO Lyndon Wood said: “4,000 calories a day is ok for manual workers but this largely depends on what it is they are eating.
“Quick sugar fixes or proper plant based foods with plenty of fibre? Plenty of vegetable and some fruit is well recommended.”