Are you in charge of hosting a morning meeting, conference or workshop that will include a complimentary breakfast for your attendees? Do you want to provide something other than coffee and doughnuts? Serving a healthy breakfast can make your meeting attendees more energetic and attentive. On the other hand, serving a high-carbohydrate breakfast that is all sugar with no protein or fiber can lead meeting participants to a sugar crash within 2-3 hours, making them feel tired and sluggish.
Here are a few healthy, low-cost breakfast suggestions that your attendees might enjoy:
- Plain low-fat yogurt with fruit. To save money, you can buy large containers of yogurt and create a make-your-own parfait station with cups and spoons. Frozen berries work well as a fruit topping, and they may be less expensive than fresh fruit, depending on what is on sale.
- Bananas, apples or oranges
- Bagels, cut into quarters, with low-fat cream cheese spread or peanut butter
- Overnight oats or slow cooker oatmeal with toppings such as dried fruit and nuts
- Low-fat granola or granola bars
- Vegetable frittata
- Bite size quiches or muffins
For beverages, consider serving
- Water
- Coffee (regular and decaffeinated)
- Hot water for tea
- Unsweetened iced tea
- 100% fruit juice in single (6-ounce) portions
- Fat-free or low-fat milk, or unsweetened milk alternatives
For additional tips on hosting a healthy meeting or event, take a look at the OSU Extension Healthy Eating at Meetings Guidelines or the Cornell University Food and Brand Lab’s Slim by Design infographic. One notable tip that works for morning and afternoon meetings alike is making water available in every meeting room at all times. Research suggests that even mild dehydration can slow metabolism and zap energy. Pitchers of water can always be infused with fruit slices or herbs to make them more enticing!
