A workplace notice allegedly directing employees to “eat faster” has gone viral on social media after introducing an unusual penalty for workers who exceed their lunch break by even a minute.
The notice, whose authenticity has not been independently verified, states that employees are allowed a maximum lunch break of 30 minutes. Under the proposed rule, every additional minute spent at lunch would require employees to complete 60 minutes of unpaid “focus time” after 6 pm.
The circular explained that an employee returning from lunch after 31 minutes would have to remain at work until 7 pm. It concluded with the brief instruction: “Eat faster.”
Social media users slam the policy
The image of the notice quickly spread across X and other social media platforms, attracting more than 1.4 lakh views and sparking widespread criticism.
Many users described the rule as an example of excessive workplace micromanagement, arguing that requiring an hour of unpaid work for a one-minute delay was unfair and disproportionate.
One user sarcastically suggested that employers should similarly pay employees an extra hour’s salary for every minute worked beyond office hours, while another warned that such treatment could negatively affect employee morale and productivity.
Others defend strict workplace discipline
Not everyone opposed the policy. Some users argued that employees are expected to work only for their agreed hours and that extended lunch breaks can reduce productivity and affect businesses.
Others pointed out that running a business comes with challenges and said employers have the right to ensure staff adhere to workplace rules.
Although the source of the notice remains unverified, it has reignited discussions about workplace culture, employee rights and the balance between productivity and fair treatment in modern offices.