Skipping Breakfast in Summer Linked to Lower Work Productivity? 56.0% Report More Missed Breakfasts in Summer, Raising Alarm for Busy Professionals' 'Summer Fatigue Fasting'

vitom Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Mikiaki Hayashi) conducted a survey on 'Summer Morning Meals' targeting men and women aged 20 to 40.

The results show that among those who do not eat breakfast daily during summer, 56.0% reported an increase in skipped breakfast days compared to usual. Furthermore, 80.4% of those who have skipped breakfast in summer experienced some form of discomfort during the morning hours, such as reduced concentration, poor mood, drowsiness, or fatigue.

While hydration is often emphasized in summer, this survey highlights that 'eating' is also a crucial lifestyle habit for maintaining daytime condition, especially for busy working individuals facing time constraints, heat, and reduced appetite.

Survey Summary

Source: vitom Co., Ltd. 'Survey on Summer Morning Meals'

· Summer days with 'significantly more' or 'somewhat more' skipped breakfasts: 56.0% (n=109) · Experience of discomfort during the morning after skipping breakfast in summer: 80.4% (n=112)

1. 56.0% Report More Breakfast-Skipping Days in Summer — Reasons Go Beyond 'Lack of Time'

When asked whether they skip breakfast more often in summer, 10.1% answered 'significantly more' and 45.9% 'somewhat more', totaling 56.0% (n=109). In contrast, 36.7% said 'no change'.

Reasons for skipping or not fully eating breakfast (n=126, multiple responses) were led by 'waking up late' (35.7%), followed by 'lack of appetite' (33.3%), 'lack of time' (29.4%), and 'feeling too hot to eat' (21.4%). This indicates that summer breakfast challenges stem not only from time constraints but also from heat and appetite loss.

2. 80.4% of Breakfast Skippers Report Morning Discomfort — 'Reduced Concentration' Most Common at 36.6%

When asked about their condition on mornings after skipping breakfast in summer, the most common response was 'reduced concentration' (36.6%), followed by 'feeling unwell' (29.5%), 'drowsiness' (25.0%), 'hunger' (25.0%), and 'lethargy' (24.1%) (n=112, multiple responses). Only 19.6% reported 'no issues', meaning 80.4% experienced some form of discomfort.

3. Summer Breakfast Priorities: 'Convenience' (52.8%) and 'Light & Easy to Eat' (41.1%)

Top considerations when choosing a summer breakfast (n=197, multiple responses) were 'easy to eat' (52.8%), followed by 'light and easy to eat' (41.1%), 'energy replenishment' (29.9%), 'balanced nutrition' (25.9%), and 'good satiety' (23.9%).

Popular choices for busy summer mornings include 'bread' (40.1%), 'onigiri' (34.0%), and 'sandwiches' (26.4%). These familiar staples are likely favored due to their quick preparation and ease of consumption.

Addressing the Survey Findings: The 'Hydration + Breakfast' Solution

While hydration is essential for summer health, this survey reveals that breakfast is often skipped due to heat, low appetite, and time pressure, with most who skip it noticing a decline in morning performance.

vitom Co., Ltd. proposes 'eating'—alongside 'drinking water'—as a new self-care habit for summer, enabling effortless nutrition even on busy mornings.

A Convenient, Room-Temperature 'Complete Nutrition Rice Meal' for Summer

'Onimochi' is a complete nutrition rice meal designed for busy days or summer months when appetite is low.

Made with domestic rice and 23 natural ingredients, one serving provides balanced intake of 32 essential nutrients, including protein, vitamins, and minerals.

No cooking required—ready to eat as-is—and can be stored at room temperature for approximately one year, making it easy to carry without spoilage concerns even in hot weather. Ideal for keeping in a commute bag or office drawer, it supports the dietary needs of busy professionals at breakfast, lunch, or during overtime.

A Portable, Light-Size Nutritional Snack for Appetite-Loss Days

'Onimochi mini' is an 85g-sized nutritional rice meal, easy to eat even when appetite is low in summer.

Formulated with protein, dietary fiber, and B vitamins, and designed for easy digestion and absorption, it supports nutritional intake during busy mornings or work breaks.

Available in refreshing Japanese-style flavors like 'Aromatic Bonito' and 'Plum Shirasu', perfect for light summer consumption.

No cooking required and room-temperature storage for about one year—ideal for convenient nutrition at the office or on the go.