Hey! I’m Sarah

As an accountant, my days are filled with spreadsheets and meetings, so lunch at the office is the highlight of my day—a chance to take a break and recharge. To make the most of my lunch breaks and maintain a healthy diet, I realized the importance of mindful lunch choices. Instead of consuming empty calories, I sought meals that positively impact my health and provide lasting energy. Motivated by this need, I researched popular American lunch meals to find quick, easy, and nutritious options that fit into my busy schedule. I hope sharing my findings helps others make better office lunch choices.

I reviewed all these office lunch meals, and the Biome Secret Superfood Shake came out on top.


Want the short version?
I personally tested 11 different office lunch meals that are shown in the image. Click to skip to the winner that worked best for me.

A little backstory…

My name is Sarah, and I work as an accountant at a large American corporation. My days are packed with spreadsheets, meetings, and constant number-crunching. Most of my hours are spent sitting at my desk, with only short breaks in between. For me, lunch is the highlight of my day. It’s the time I eagerly anticipate—a chance to take a break from my work tasks, connect with colleagues, and, most importantly, recharge my body and mind with food.

However, I know that my sedentary lifestyle requires me to be more mindful of my lunch choices. It’s not just about fuelling my body; it’s also about how I feel after eating. I need meals that provide sustained energy without making me feel sluggish or overly full. I’m aware that the nutritional profile of my lunch can have significant health impacts, both positive and negative.

Driven by this awareness, I decided to test 11 most popular American lunch meals to find options that are not only quick and easy but also nutritious and beneficial for my health. Through my research and analysis, I aimed to discover the best office lunch meals that can fit seamlessly into my busy schedule while promoting my well-being.

As I explored various lunch options, from traditional sandwiches and salads to trendy meal replacement shakes, I considered nutritional factors and calorie content. Equally important was evaluating how these meals made me feel throughout the afternoon—whether they kept me energized and focused or left me feeling sluggish and unproductive.

My #1 GOAL
was clear -  to find the quickest, easiest, and most nutritious office lunch meals possible, providing the necessary nutrition and energy without the hassle.

By sharing my findings, I hope to help others in similar situations make better lunch choices, turning their midday break into a moment of enjoyment. After all, self-care begins with nourishing your body with the right foods. Once I started including the nutrients I previously overlooked, my whole body began feeling much better 🙏🏻.

Testing methodology 🔬 

I’ve written down all the office lunch meals that I’ve tested.

To identify the best office lunch options, I dedicated myself to a thorough and methodical testing process. I selected a variety of popular American lunch meals, including traditional sandwiches, salads, and trendy meal replacement shakes. Over the course of 11 months, I evaluated each meal based on several criteria:

NUTRITIONAL COMPONENTS:

⚖️ Calories: To maintain a balanced intake and avoid weight gain.
🥚 Protein: To help me feel full longer and reduce cravings.
🥦 Fiber: For optimal digestion, overall gut health, and to prevent constipation/bloating.
🥑 Healthy Fats: To provide long-lasting energy and support healthy cholesterol levels, brain function, and heart health.
🌾 Carbohydrates: To provide essential energy for daily activities.

HOW EACH MEAL IMPACTED ME:

⚡ Energy & Focus: To ensure I had enough energy and maintained productivity at work.
😊 Overall Well-being / Side Effects: To make sure I felt good without experiencing bloating, cravings, hunger, or sleepiness throughout the day.
🏥 Health Benefits / Concerns: To evaluate the health benefits and address any concerns, ensuring the meal supports my long-term well-being.
😋 Enjoyment Factor: To ensure the meal was enjoyable and satisfying, something I would look forward to eating.

Over an 11-month testing period, I evaluated each office lunch meal for an entire month to gain a long-term perspective. My goal was to identify meals that offered convenience, nutrition, and satisfaction without compromising my health and overall well-being.

Comparing office lunch meals: a personal journey

TLDR - My Top Office Lunch Meal: For those short on time, my top recommendation is the Biome Secret Superfood Meal Replacement Shake. Not only does it taste very good,  but it also has the highest nutritional values that doubled as a multivitamin + probiotic + had hunger suppression science behind it. Most importantly, it leaves you feeling good after eating and has positive health effects in the long run.

Summary Comparison Chart

By the time I figured out the factors I wanted to evaluate for each office lunch meal, I decided to make a simple comparison chart summarising my findings. This chart comes from my own trials and shows how each meal is nutritionally claimed and how meal impacted me in terms of energy, taste, whether the meal gave me any unintended side effects and what could be possible health benefits or concerns.


I've ranked the office lunch meals from most to least favoured, scoring them from 5 to 1, with 5 being the highest score and 1 the lowest.

Meal

Calories ⚖️

Protein 🥚/ Fiber 🥦

Healthy fats 🥑

Carbs 🌾

Energy & Focus

Score / Enjoyment Factor 😋

Side Effects / Comment

Biome Secret Superfood Shake

400 cal

42 g / 9 g

16 g

23 g

⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡

5 /
😋😋😋😋

None / This meal offers high protein and good fiber, which support gut health and help with weight management. Additionally, it includes nearly all essential vitamins and minerals.

Chicken Salad with Avocado (meal prep)

450 cal

30 g / 8 g

25 g

15 g

⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡

5 /
😋😋😋

None / Provides balanced nutrients with a high protein content and good fiber levels. This supports overall digestive health and helps with weight management.

Huel Original Complete Meal

400 cal

30 g / 7.8 g

12 g

39 g

⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡

5 /
😋😋

 None / Promotes gut health and overall wellness by providing most of the essential nutrients.Good for weight control.

Grilled Chicken Wrap
(meal prep)

450 cal

25 g / 6 g

8 g

30 g

⚡⚡⚡⚡

5 /
😋😋😋

Slight Bloating / Provides essential nutrients and supports muscle health with its high protein content. However, excessive unhealthy fats from cheese, sauces, and oils can increase cholesterol levels and pose a risk to heart health.

Beef Burrito

650 cal

30 g /8 g

10 g

50 g

⚡⚡⚡

4 /
😋😋😋😋

Slight Gas and Bloating / It offers essential nutrients and promotes muscle health due to its high protein content. However, it may also include significant amounts of unhealthy fats from cheese, sauces, and oils, potentially raising cholesterol levels and impacting heart health.  

⚠️ Be mindful that the nutritional profile may slightly vary based on the recipe, but here’s a general approximate estimation.

My Learnings about Nutrition from Meals

When I started analyzing my lunch meals, I realized how important it was to pay attention to nutritional facts. A few key things really stood out to me.

✔️ Healthy Fats Provide Sustained Energy: I learned about the importance of healthy fats. These fats give me long-lasting energy and support both my brain and heart health. Plus, they help my body absorb essential vitamins, which makes a big difference in my overall well-being. I've found that aiming for about 40-70 grams of fat per day works well for me (the range might vary depending on your calorie needs).

✔️ Carbohydrates Are Your Main Energy Source: Carbs turned out to be more important than I initially thought. They are my primary energy source, fueling my body and brain. On days when I consumed enough carbs, I felt more energized and clear-headed, ready to handle my tasks. Targeting around 200-300 grams of carbs per day has been a good guideline for keeping my energy levels steady.

✔️ ProteinIs Essential For Everyone: One significant takeaway was that protein isn’t just for gym buffs. I found that without enough protein, my body started losing muscle mass. Protein supports my metabolism and keeps me feeling full and energized throughout my busy workdays. Many of the meals I tried provided a substantial amount of protein, and aiming for about 50 grams per day keeps me feeling great (for men, around 60 grams).

✔️ Fiber Aids Digestion: Fiber became another crucial focus for me. Good digestion and overall gut health are vital, and fiber helps with both. It prevents constipation and bloating, which is especially important when I'm stuck at my desk for hours. I've found that about 25 grams of fiber per day keeps my digestion on track (for men, it should be around 30 grams).

✔️ Not All Calories Are Equal: Finally, I discovered that not all calories are created equal. Some meals were high in calories but low inessential nutrients, leading to energy crashes and nutritional deficiencies. I realized that consuming empty calories left me feeling sluggish and unproductive. Choosing nutrient-dense foods, on the other hand, provided me with sustained energy and better overall health. For maintaining a slight calorie deficit, aiming for about 1,600-1,800 calories per day works well for me (for men, around 2,000-2,600 calories).

My personal insights on nutrition from my food experiences.

🏆 The best office lunch choise for me:

Biome Secret Superfood Shake

NUTRITIONAL PROFILE OF BIOME SECRET SUPERFOOD SHAKE – ALL THE BEST

Moderate Calories: Contains around 400 calories per serving. I reallylike that it only contains good calories, offering complete nutrition from onemeal. One of the best parts is that it helps me take control of my weight too.

High in Protein: Packed with 42 grams of protein per serving. Eventhough I don't exercise regularly, I appreciate that it helps keep me feelingfull and satisfied longer, supports my overall health, and provides essentialnutrients for my body’s daily functions.

High in Healthy Fats: Contains healthy fats from sources like flaxseedand coconut MCT oil. I love that these fats support my overall health, keepingmy energy levels steady and my mind sharp.

Fiber-Rich: Includes 9 grams of dietary fiber. I appreciate howit aids digestion and helps keep me feeling full longer, making it easier toavoid unhealthy snacks.

Vitamins & Minerals-Rich: Fortified with a broad spectrum of 27 vitamins and minerals. I love knowing that it ensures comprehensive nutrition, supporting my overall health.

The Biome Secret Meal Replacement Shake is designed to provide a balanced meal in a convenient shake form.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE USING BIOME SECRET SUPERFOOD SHAKE 

Energy & Focus: Packed with the right nutrients, this meal replacement shake gives me a steady boost of energy and helps me stay focused throughout my busy workday. Instead of feeling the afternoon slump, I feel alert and productive. 

😊 Overall Well-being: Since I started having this shake for lunch, I feel so much better overall. It's balanced nutrition that makes me feel healthier and more refreshed. It's like giving my body exactly what it needs.

🏥 Health Benefits: Since I started having this shake for lunch, I've experienced several real benefits. My belly is flatter, my skin is glowing, and I no longer feel bloated. My digestion has improved, and I feel fuller for longer, which helps me avoid unhealthy snacks. Additionally, I've noticed increased mental clarity and less afternoon fatigue. It’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals that truly make a difference in how I feel every day. I can't wait to take my yearly medical blood tests to see the results, not just from the outside but also from the inside.

😋 Enjoyment Factor: And let's not forget the taste! Unlike other meal replacements I've tried, this one is genuinely delicious. I actually look forward to my lunch, knowing I'm going to enjoy every sip. It mixes easily and has a smooth, pleasant texture that makes it feel like a treat rather than a chore.

SUMMARY

Being in my profession with a busy schedule,finding healthy and convenient food options was always tough. I often ended upexhausted and unfocused from skipping meals or opting for fast food. Thatchanged when I found Biome Secret Meal Replacement Shakes. These shakes offeredmuch more nutrition than my usual lunches, without the hassle of meal prep orsacrificing flavor.

‍With 100% plant-based ingredients, they kept me full and effectively curbedmy hunger. The energy boost and improved focus I experienced eliminated thosedreaded midday energy dips. The convenience of individually portioned packsmade it easy to stick to healthy lunches every day. Having these pre-measuredservings on hand meant I always had a nutritious option that fit perfectly intomy busy schedule, with no guilt and no prep. Plus, the taste is fantasticfter trying many meal replacement shakes, I can confidently say these are the best I've had.

Office Lunch Meal Runner Up 🥈

Chicken Salad With Avocado

MEAL PREP

NUTRITIONAL PROFILE

Moderate Calories: My typical serving contains around 450 calories because I like eating slightly bigger portions with extra dressing and avocado.

High Protein: The grilled chicken provides about 30 grams of protein, which helps keep me feeling full and satisfied.

Healthy Fats: The fats come from the avocado and a light dressing. These are healthy fats, which are beneficial for heart health and add a lot of flavor to the salad.

Carbohydrates: The salad contains about 15 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the vegetables and avocado.

Fiber: The romaine lettuce, other veggies, and avocado add about 8 grams of fiber, which is great for digestion and helps keep me full longer.

Vitamins & Minerals: It’s packed with vitamins A and C from the greens and other veggies, and potassium and healthy fats from the avocado, which is great for overall health.

Chicken Salad with Avocado is a classic choice that offers a mix of fresh ingredients and balanced nutrition. However, be careful with the dressing, as it can add extra calories if not used in moderation.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

⚡ Energy & Focus:
The Chicken Salad with Avocado gives me a solid energy boost and helps me stay focused during my busy afternoons. It’s a lighter meal that doesn’t leave me feeling sluggish.

😊 Overall Well-being:
Since adding this salad to my lunch rotation, I feel good about eating something fresh and healthy. It’s a nice break from heavier meals and makes me feel refreshed.

🏥 Health Benefits:
The protein from the chicken keeps me satisfied, and the vitamins from the greens and avocado support my overall health. The fiber content aids digestion and helps keep me full longer.

😋 Enjoyment Factor:
I really enjoy the taste of the Chicken Salad with Avocado. The crisp lettuce, savory chicken, creamy avocado, and light dressing make it a delicious option. However, I try to go easy on the dressing to keep it lighter.

SUMMARY

As an avocado lover, grilled chicken salad with avocado is my go-to lunch. It’s fresh, tasty, and highly nutritious. The harmony of tender chicken, creamy avocado, and crisp greens not only keeps me energized and satisfied but also makes my taste buds happy. With a perfect blend of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, it’s a delightful and convenient choice that fuels me through my busy workday. I genuinely could eat this meal every day.

Huel Original Complete Meal


NUTRITIONAL PROFILE


Moderate Calories
: Contains around 400 calories, which works great as a full meal replacement for me.

Moderate in Protein: It offers 30 grams of protein per serving, which I find essential for keeping me full.
However, it's not as filling as the Biome Secret meal replacement shake, which has even more protein.

Healthy Fats: It includes healthy fats from sources like flaxseed and sunflower oil, which I appreciate for overall health.

Fiber-Rich: It has about 7.8 grams of dietary fiber, which is a good amount that helps with digestion and keeps me full.

Vitamins & Minerals: It's fortified with 26 vitamins and minerals, ensuring I get comprehensive nutrition, which is super important when I’m too busy to think about a balanced diet.

The Huel Original Complete Meal has become my third favorite option. It provides a complete meal in a convenient powdered shake form, making balanced nutrition on my busy days simple and accessible.

MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE USING HUEL COMPLETE MEAL SHAKE

⚡ Energy & Focus: Since I started drinking Huel, I stay energized and focused throughout the day. The balanced nutrients give me a steady energy boost, helping me stay sharp during long work hours.

😊 Overall Well-being:
Since adding Huel to my routine, I've noticed I have more energy and feel less sluggish. The balanced nutrition has helped me feel healthier and more alert throughout the day.

🏥 Health Benefits:
I’ve noticed several health benefits with Huel. The high protein content helps keep me satisfied, and the fiber aids digestion and keeps me feeling full longer. It's also packed with essential vitamins and minerals, supporting my overall health and helping with weight management.

😋 Enjoyment Factor:
While Huel is convenient and nutritious, the taste is not my favorite. Compared to other options, it lacks a bit in flavor, which is why it ranks third on my list. However, it’s still very enjoyable and doesn’t cause any gas or bloating.  

SUMMARY

For me, Huel is balanced in nutrients and incredibly convenient. It keeps me energized and feeling light, without any digestive issues. This meal offers moderate protein and good fiber, supporting my overall health and weight management. However, I do wish the taste was a bit more exciting, and the fullness doesn’t last as long as with Biome Secret. Huel is solid, but it’s not winning any flavor awards in my book.

Grilled Chicken Wrap

MEAL PREP


NUTRITIONAL PROFILE

Moderate Calories: My typical serving contains around 400-500 calories, depending on the size of the wrap and the amount of sauce or cheese added.

Moderate Protein: The grilled chicken provides about 25-30 grams of protein, which helps keep me feeling full and satisfied.

Fats: The fats come from the chicken, any added cheese, and sauces. While the fats from the chicken are healthy, be careful with the cheese and sauces as they can add unhealthy fats and extra calories.

Fiber: The whole wheat tortilla and any added veggies provide a decent amount of fiber, but it’s not as fiber-rich as other meal options.

Vitamins & Minerals: Depending on the veggies added, it can provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A from lettuce and vitamin C from bell peppers.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

⚡ Energy & Focus: The Grilled Chicken Wrap provides a nice energy boost and helps me stay focused during my busy afternoons. It’s a satisfying meal that fuels me without feeling overly heavy.

😊 Overall Well-being:
Including this wrap in my lunch rotation makes me feel good about having a nutritious and tasty meal. It strikes a nice balance between flavor and health, contributing to my overall sense of well-being.

🏥 Health Benefits:
The protein from the chicken helps keep me satisfied, preventing mid-afternoon cravings. The added veggies are a great source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin A and C, which are important for my immune system and skin health. However, I do wish it had more fiber to improve digestion and maintain fullness for longer periods. This would help prevent those afternoon snack attacks and keep my digestive system running smoothly.

😋 Enjoyment Factor:
I really enjoy the flavors of the Grilled Chicken Wrap. The grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and tasty sauce create a delicious combination. I try to go easy on the sauce and cheese to maintain its healthiness.

SUMMARY

For me, grilled chicken wrap is a flavorful and convenient lunch option that offers moderate nutrition. It keeps me energized and content, though it doesn’t keep me as full as some other meals, and the tortilla can sometimes feel a bit heavy. Overall, it’s a great choice for a lighter, enjoyable lunch that fits well into my busy workday. I do have to admit, though, that it leaves me with a bit of a sweet tooth craving afterward. Maybe it’s just my excuse for a little afternoon treat!

Beef Burrito


NUTRITIONAL PROFILE


Moderate to High Calories: Depending on the size and ingredients, a typical beef burrito can range from 500-800 calories.

High Protein: The beef provides a substantial amount of protein, usually around 25-35 grams per serving, which helps keep me full and satisfied. 

Fats: The fats come from the beef, cheese, and any added sauces like sour cream. These can include healthy fats, but can also be high in saturated fats, so moderation is key. 

Fiber: If made with beans and a whole wheat tortilla, it can offer a good amount of fiber, aiding digestion and keeping me full longer. 

Vitamins & Minerals: The inclusion of vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and peppers provides essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

Energy & Focus: While the Beef Burrito provides a solid amount of protein and carbs, it often leaves me feeling sleepy and sluggish in the afternoon. The heaviness of the meal can make it harder to stay focused and energetic during busy workdays. 

😊 Overall Well-being: Adding this burrito to my lunch rotation feels satisfying and nutritious. It's a hearty meal that keeps me feeling full and content, though it can be heavy if consumed too frequently. Additionally, I've noticed it can cause bloating and gas, which can be uncomfortable.

🏥 Health Benefits: The protein from the beef helps keep my hunger at bay, preventing mid-afternoon cravings. The beans and vegetables contribute to fiber and essential vitamins, supporting my overall health. However, the high calorie and fat content, particularly from cheese and sour cream, can be drawbacks if not consumed in moderation. Additionally, it’s important to watch the portion size to avoid overeating.

😋 Enjoyment Factor: I really enjoy the flavors of a Beef Burrito. The combination of seasoned beef, beans, cheese, and fresh veggies wrapped in a tortilla is delicious and satisfying. However, it can sometimes feel a bit heavy, especially if loaded with cheese and sour cream. I try to balance it with lighter meals on other days.

SUMMARY

For me, beef burrito is a tasty and filling lunch option that provides substantial nutrition. Who doesn’t love a rolled-up tortilla filled with rice, beans, meat, and more? While it can initially keep me energized and focused, it often leaves me feeling sleepy and sluggish later. It's quite high in calories and fat, especially with cheese and sour cream, and can sometimes cause bloating. Overall, it's satisfying and fits into my busy schedule, but I balance it with lighter meals throughout the week to avoid feeling too heavy.  

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice

LEFTOVER


NUTRITIONAL PROFILE

Moderate Calories: This meal usually contains around 500 calories per serving, depending on the sauce and rice portion. But I like my lunch to be more fulfilling, so I usually add a bit more brown rice.

Rich in Fiber: The assortment of vegetables provides a high amount of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion. 

Complex Carbohydrates: The rice, especially if I choose brown rice, offers complex carbs that provide sustained energy. 

Low in Fats: Typically low in unhealthy fats, especially if I cook with a minimal amount of healthy oils like olive or sesame oil. 

Vitamins & Minerals: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like potassium and magnesium, thanks to the diverse vegetable content.

My typical Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice includes a variety of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots, and onions, all sautéed in a light sauce and served over steamed rice.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

Energy & Focus: This meal keeps me energized and focused throughout my hectic afternoons. The complex carbs from the rice provide sustained energy, helping me avoid that dreaded afternoon slump.

😊 Overall Well-being: Since incorporating this meal into my routine, I feel so much better overall. I love this feeling of being light!

🏥 Health Benefits: I've noticed real health benefits too. The high fiber content aids my digestion, and I feel lighter and less bloated. Plus, it's low in unhealthy fats and supports heart health and weight management.

😋 Enjoyment Factor: Stir-fry is a satisfying lunch that I often look forward to. However, it can cause slight gas due to the high fiber content, and it's not quite as enjoyable as some of my previous meals.

SUMMARY

My trusty go-to leftover from last night's dinner, this stir-fry is incredibly convenient to bring to the office. Not only does it help me reduce food waste, but it also delivers a tasty and nutritious meal. The high fiber content keeps me feeling light and refreshed, though it can cause a bit of gas. I really appreciate the light feeling it gives me throughout the day. However, I've ranked it a bit lower because of its very low protein content, which doesn't keep me as full as I'd like.

Chicken Curry with Rice

MICROWAVE
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE


Moderate Calories:
My typical serving contains around 550 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients. 

Moderate Protein:
The chicken provides around 20 grams of protein, which helps keep me full and satisfied. 

Fats:
The fats in this meal come from the curry sauce and chicken. While the curry sauce can add healthy fats if it includes ingredients like coconut milk, it can also be high in saturated fats, so moderation is key. 

Fiber:
The rice and any included vegetables add some fiber, but it’s not particularly fiber-rich compared to other meals. 

Vitamins & Minerals:
This meal provides a range of vitamins and minerals, though in minor quantities, such as vitamin A from carrots and vitamin C from bell peppers, depending on the vegetables used in the curry.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE


⚡ Energy & Focus:
The Chicken Curry with Rice provides a decent energy boost, helping me stay alert and productive through out the afternoon. It's hearty and filling, which is great for staying focused, but sometimes it can leave me feeling a bit too heavy.

😊 Overall Well-being:
Incorporating this meal into my lunch routine has been convenient, but not always ideal. While the flavors are comforting and it feels good to eat something warm, I sometimes feel sluggish afterward due to the richness of the curry.

🏥 Health Benefits:
The protein from the chicken helps keep my hunger at bay, which is great for preventing mid-afternoon cravings. The vegetables, though in smaller quantities, provide essential vitamins and minerals. However, the fiber content is lacking, which doesn't help much with digestion or keeping me full for longer. Additionally, relying on a microwaved meal can be less than ideal, as frequent microwave use might lead to nutrient loss.

😋 Enjoyment Factor:
I enjoy the flavors of Chicken Curry with Rice—the spicy curry combined with tender chicken and fluffy rice is delicious. However, the sauce can be quite rich and high in fat, making it a less healthy choice if consumed too often. Plus, being a frozen meal, it lacks the freshness of a homemade dish.

SUMMARY

This meal is my go-to when I don’t have time to meal prep, have no leftovers, or just don’t want to resort to fast food. While it lacks the freshness of a homemade dish, it still delivers a burst of flavor, right from my office microwave. However, the low fiber content means it doesn’t keep me full for as long as I’d like, and it can sometimes feel a bit heavy. I love the convenience, but I balance it with fresher meals throughout the week to avoid over-relying on frozen options. Despite its drawbacks, it fits well into my hectic schedule, providing a warm, spicy comfort that hits the spot. I just make sure not to have it too often to keep things balanced.

California Sushi Roll


NUTRITIONAL PROFILE


Moderate Calories: A typical serving of 8 pieces contains around 300-350 calories, making it a light meal option.

Moderate Protein: The crab (or imitation crab) provides around 6-8 grams of protein, which helps with satiety.

Fats: The fats come primarily from the avocado and sometimes mayonnaise. These can include healthy fats from the avocado, but be cautious of added mayo, which can increase calorie and unhealthy fat content.

Fiber: The avocado and cucumber add some fiber, but it's not particularly high in fiber overall.

Vitamins & Minerals: The roll includes vitamins and minerals like vitamin A and C from the vegetables, and iodine from the seaweed.


PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

Energy & Focus: The California Roll provides a light energy boost, perfect for staying focused during an afternoon of moderate tasks. However, it might be too light for more intense mental work.

😊 Overall Well-being: Including sushi in my lunch feels refreshing and healthy. It’s a nice break from heavier meals, though it doesn’t always keep me full, and I often get hungry sooner than I’d like.

🏥 Health Benefits: The mix of protein from the crab and healthy fats from the avocado makes for a balanced meal. The seaweed adds iodine for thyroid health. However, the low fiber content doesn’t aid digestion or provide long-lasting fullness. Additionally, imitation crab can add extra sodium and preservatives, which aren’t ideal.

😋 Enjoyment Factor: I love the taste of California Rolls. The blend of crab, avocado, cucumber, and rice wrapped in seaweed is delicious. However, the high sodium content, especially when using soy sauce, is something I watch out for. It’s tasty but not as filling, so I often want a snack afterward.

SUMMARY

This meal is a tasty and light lunch option that provides moderate nutrition. It keeps me energized and focused, but doesn’t always keep me full for very long due to its low fiber and protein content. While it’s convenient and delicious, the sodium content and use of imitation crab can be drawbacks. Personally, I’m not a fan of raw fish, so this sushi style is perfect for me. And of course, I love everything with avocado! Overall, it’s an enjoyable lunch that fits well into my busy schedule, but I make sure to balance it with more filling meals throughout the week.

FAST FOOD OPTIONS 🍔 🍕 🍟

Not the most nutritious, but they can be a rare treat

Submarine Sandwich with Ham


NUTRITIONAL PROFILE


Moderate to High Calories
: A typical sub can range from 600-700 calories, depending on the size and ingredients. 

Moderate Protein: The ham provides around 15 grams of protein, which offers some satiety. 

High in Unhealthy Fats: The fats come from the ham, cheese, and condiments like mayonnaise, which can be unhealthy. 

Low Fiber: Even with whole grain bread and vegetables, the fiber content is only moderate. Without these additions, it’s usually very low. 

Low Vitamins & Minerals: The small amount of vegetables adds minor vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

Energy & Focus: The Submarine Sandwich with Ham gives me a brief energy boost, but it doesn’t last long. The refined carbs and processed ham often leave me feeling sluggish and less focused later in the afternoon.

😊 Overall Well-being: While it’s convenient, this sandwich doesn’t make me feel my best. The processed ham and high sodium content often leads to bloating and a heavy feeling. Adding vegetables helps a bit, but it’s still not the healthiest choice for a regular lunch.

🏥 Health Benefits: The protein from the ham provides some satiety, but the overall health benefits are limited due to the processed meat and refined carbs. The vegetables offer minimal vitamins and minerals, and the sandwich is high in sodium and low in fiber, which doesn’t support good digestion or long-lasting fullness.

😋 Enjoyment Factor: The first few bites of a Submarine Sandwich with Ham are delicious, with the combination of ham, cheese, and veggies hitting the spot. But halfway through, the enjoyment fades as the heaviness and processed ingredients start to take their toll.

SUMMARY

For me, it’s a convenient and tasty lunch option that starts off great but loses its charm quickly. The first few bites are delicious, and I really enjoy the combination of ham, cheese, and fresh veggies. However, by the time I'm halfway through, the high calories, unhealthy fats, and processed ingredients start to weigh me down. It often leaves me feeling sluggish and less focused for the rest of the day. To avoid feeling too heavy and bloated, I balance it with lighter, more nutritious meals throughout the week. So, while it's a tasty treat, the enjoyment factor doesn’t last long.

Cheeseburger with Fries


NUTRITIONAL PROFILE


High Calories
: Depending on the size and ingredients, a typical cheeseburger with fries can range from 1000-1,200 calories.

Moderate Protein: The beef patty provides around 20-25 grams of protein, which helps with satiety.

High in Unhealthy Fats: The fats come from the beef, cheese, and frying oil. These can include unhealthy saturated and trans fats, which are important to limit.

Low Fiber: The white bun and fries offer minimal fiber, which doesn’t aid in digestion or long-lasting fullness.

Low Vitamins & Minerals: The minimal vegetables (like a slice of tomato or lettuce) provide very few vitamins and minerals. The meal is often high in sodium and preservatives.


PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

Energy & Focus: A cheeseburger with fries gives me an initial energy spike due to the high calorie and carbohydrate content. However, this is usually followed by a crash, making me feel tired and unfocused as the afternoon progresses.

😊 Overall Well-being: While it's a comfort food that tastes great initially, it often leaves me feeling heavy and sluggish. The high fat and calorie content can lead to bloating and an overall feeling of discomfort.

🏥 Health Benefits: The protein from the beef patty provides some satiety, but the health benefits are outweighed by the high levels of unhealthy fats and low nutritional value. The lack of fiber doesn’t help with digestion or maintaining a feeling of fullness.

😋 Enjoyment Factor: The first few bites of a cheeseburger with fries are undeniably delicious. The combination of juicy beef, melted cheese, and crispy fries is hard to resist. However, half way through, the enjoyment fades as the meal starts to feel greasy and heavy. By the end, the initial pleasure is overshadowed by the uncomfortable fullness and sluggishness.

SUMMARY

This meal is undeniably tasty and convenient, but it’s not winning any nutrition awards. The first few bites are blissful, with juicy beef, melted cheese, and crispy fries hitting all the right notes. But soon, the high calories, unhealthy fats, and low nutritional value become clear. The energy boost is short-lived, leading to an afternoon crash that leaves me feeling sluggish and unfocused. Plus, the greasy nature of the meal can cause uncomfortable bloating. So, while it’s a delightful treat that brings momentary joy, the enjoyment factor fades quickly.

Pepperoni Pizza Slices


NUTRITIONAL PROFILE

High Calories: Three slices can range from 600-900 calories, depending on the crust thickness, cheese, and amount of pepperoni. It really depends on the pizzeria I am ordering from, so being exact with calories is difficult.

Moderate Protein: The combination of cheese and pepperoni delivers around 18-24 grams of protein, which helps with some level of satiety but isn't quite enough for a long-lasting full feeling.

High in Unhealthy Fats: Most of the fats come from the cheese, pepperoni, and crust, typically including unhealthy saturated fats. It's the kind of meal that tastes great but can be a nutritional pitfall.

Low Fiber: Pizza crusts, especially those made from refined flour, contribute very little fiber, which means it doesn’t do much for digestion or keeping you full.

Lacking Vitamins & Minerals: Sadly, pepperoni pizza isn’t known for its nutritional bounty. The lack of veggies means there are minimal vitamins and minerals, and the processed pepperoni is loaded with sodium and preservatives.


PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

Energy & Focus: While three slices of pepperoni pizza might give me a quick energy boost, the high carbs and fats usually lead to an afternoon slump, leaving me feeling tired and less focused.

😊 Overall Well-being: Initially, the taste and comfort of pizza are great, but it often leaves me feeling heavy and sluggish afterward. The high fat and calorie content can also cause bloating and discomfort.

🏥 Health Benefits: The protein from the cheese and pepperoni helps somewhat with satiety, but the high levels of unhealthy fats and low nutritional value overshadow this benefit. The lack of fiber doesn’t aid digestion or keep me full for long.

😋 Enjoyment Factor: The first few bites of pepperoni pizza are pure bliss—the crispy crust, savory pepperoni, and cheese are hard to resist. However, halfway through, the grease and heaviness kick in, diminishing the enjoyment.

SUMMARY 

Pepperoni Pizza (3 Slices) is my go-to guilty pleasure – delicious and convenient, but not the best nutritionally. The first bite is always amazing with the perfect mix of crust, cheese, and pepperoni. However, the high calories and unhealthy fats quickly catch up, and the energy boost doesn’t last long, often leaving me feeling sluggish. The greasiness can also cause bloating. While it’s a fun treat that brings a moment of joy, the enjoyment fades fast, making it not the best choice for regular lunches.

The verdict

Out of all office lunch meals tried, ultimately chose Biome Secret Superfood Shake

For a long time, eating healthy during my busy workdays at the office was a real struggle. I often ended up grabbing fast food or skipping lunch altogether, which left me feeling tired, sluggish, and unsatisfied. This unhealthy pattern was draining my energy and affecting my overall well-being.

Fast food seemed like a quick and convenient option, but it came with a lot of drawbacks. High in calories and low in nutrition, these meals left me bloated and fatigued. I needed a better way to stay energized and healthy throughout my hectic days.

Determined to find a quick, easy, and nutritious office lunch, I set out to explore and analyze various popular lunch meals. I tried everything from salads and wraps to meal replacement shakes, assessing each for taste, convenience, and nutritional value.

After months of testing and trying various meals myself, I found the perfect solution: the Biome Secret Superfood Meal Replacement Shake. This shake has been a total game-changer for me. It feels like I'm giving my body everything it needs. Imagine getting the protein of a chicken breast, the fiber of three heads of broccoli, and all the vitamins and minerals of a big, colorful salad, all in one delicious drink. It's more than just a convenient meal substitute; it's a nutritional powerhouse that fits perfectly into my busy office routine.

Finding this delicious and nutritious office meal has made my lunch break something to look forward to.

The best part? It’s ready in minutes, making it incredibly appealing for my hectic schedule. No more feeling sluggish or unsatisfied after lunch—just pure, sustained energy to power through my day.

What made this shake stand out for me was how it met all my nutritional needs. It replaced unhealthy calories with nutrient-rich ones, eliminating my bloating and constipation with its high fiber and digestive support.

With 80% of my daily protein and 27 essential vitamins and minerals from whole-food ingredients, it’s free from gluten, GMOs, lactose, nuts, soy, hormones, added sugars, and trans fats. Unlike other brands, it tastes great, mixes well, and keeps me full and energized for about 4 hours.

Now, lunch is quick and easy, allowing me to save time for my beloved lunch walks (when I can :) ). Choosing the Biome Secret Superfood Meal Replacement Shake was a no-brainer. After trying many options, this shake has been the best. It's been a true winner for me.

Full Comparison Chart

Meal

Calories
⚖️

Protein 🥚 / Fiber 🥦

Healthy fats
🥑

Carbs
🌾

Energy & Focus ⚡

Score / Enjoyment Factor 😋

Side Effects / Comment

Biome Secret Superfood
Shake

400 cal

42 g / 9 g

16 g

23 g

⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡

5 /
😋😋😋😋

None / This meal offers high protein and good fiber, which support gut health and help with weight management. Additionally, it includes nearly all essential vitamins and minerals.

Chicken Salad with Avocado
(meal prep)

450 cal

30g / 8 g

25 g

15 g

⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡

5 /
😋😋😋

None / Provides balanced nutrients with a high protein content and good fiber levels. This supports overall digestive health and helps with weight management.

Huel Original Complete Meal

400 cal

30 g / 7.8 g

12 g

39 g

⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡

5 /
😋😋

None / Promotes gut health and  overall wellness by providing most of the essential nutrients. Good for  weight control.

Grilled Chicken Wrap
(meal prep)

450 cal

25 g / 6 g

8 g

30 g

⚡⚡⚡⚡

5 /
😋😋😋

Slight Bloating / Provides essential nutrients and supports muscle health with its high protein content.However, excessive unhealthy fats from cheese, sauces, and oils can increase cholesterol levels and pose a risk to heart health.

Beef Burrito

650 cal

30 g /8 g

10 g

50 g

⚡⚡⚡

4 /
😋😋😋😋

Slight Gas & Bloating / It offers essential nutrients and promotes muscle health due to its high protein content. However, it may also include significant amounts of unhealthy fats from cheese, sauces, and oils, potentially raising cholesterol levels and impacting heart health. Also, the elevated sodium content can lead to high blood pressure with frequent consumption.

The following office lunch meals were tested but scored lower due to a poorer nutritional profile and/or higher calorie content

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice (leftover)

400 cal

10 g / 6 g

10 g

50 g

⚡⚡⚡⚡

4 /
😋😋

None / Promotes digestive health due to its high fiber content from the vegetables. However, the high sodium content in the sauces commonly used can increase blood pressure if consumed frequently.

Chicken Curry with Rice (microwave)

550 cal

20 g /4 g

8 g

60 g

⚡⚡⚡

4 /
😋😋😋😋

Sleepy, Slight Bloating / Offers anti-inflammatory benefits from spices and muscle support from the protein. However, the sauce can be high in calories and saturated fats, which can contribute to heart disease if consumed often.

California
Sushi Roll

350 cal

10 g / 4 g

5 g

38 g

⚡⚡⚡⚡

3 /
😋😋😋😋

None / Offer heart-healthy fats from avocado and have moderate calories. However, they are low in fiber and can have high sodium content, which may affect digestion.

Submarine Sandwich
with Ham

600 cal

20 g / 5 g

4 g

45 g

⚡⚡

2 /
😋😋😋😋

Headache, Slight Bloating, Energy Crash, Irregular bowel movements / Good source of protein and potential fiber with whole-grain bread, but high sodium and saturated fats can raise blood pressure and cholesterol.

Cheeseburger with fries

1200 cal

30g / 4 g

5 g

80 g

⚡⚡

1 /
😋😋😋😋😋

Sleepy, Bloated, Energy Crash, Increased Cravings / Supplies protein for muscle health, but high unhealthy fats and sodium can increase the risk of heart disease and obesity (weight gain).

Pepperoni
Pizza Slices
(3pieces)

1200 cal

30g / 4 g

5 g

80 g

⚡⚡

1 /
😋😋😋😋😋

Sleepy, Bloated, Energy Crash, Increased Cravings / Supplies protein for muscle health, but high unhealthy fats and sodium can increase the risk of heart disease and obesity (weight gain).

Go To Winner