Overview

Google’s Food Choice Architecture (FCA) program, launched in 2016, is designed to subtly guide employees toward healthier and more sustainable eating habits within Google's food environments. 

The core challenge addressed by FCA is how to effectively encourage sustainable and nutritious food choices without restricting freedom. This is done by influencing behaviors through strategic environmental design and behavioral nudges. FCA modifies food environments – such as Google’s anchor cafes and breakroom spaces—through thoughtful interventions like adjustments in portion sizes, presentation, placement, personalization, promotional messaging, and product offerings.

Alignment with the EAT-Lancet Commission 

Our story aligns with the 2019 EAT-Lancet Commission’s key dimensions by leveraging food choice architecture to promote a diet rich in plant-based foods, reduce meat consumption, and encourage sustainable food choices to improve the health of people and and the planet. Progress is evidenced by metrics such as reduced purchasing of animal products, reductions in food waste, and improvements in employee satisfaction with healthier offerings.  For example, in the last several years, updated FCA standards were piloted in 61 Micro Kitchens globally. 

Next steps

The Food at Google program continues to iterate on and build the FCA program to reflect the latest behavioral science findings and evidence-based research. 

For more information contact: Chavanne Hanson at chavannehanson@google.com