Food vouchers and meal vouchers: what's the difference and which one should you choose?
Advertisements
The Brazilian job market offers a series of benefits, and the duo Food vouchers and meal vouchers is, without a doubt, one of the most valued.
However, the difference between them is not just a bureaucratic detail, but rather a fundamental distinction in the worker's daily life.
Understanding this nuance is crucial for both those who receive it and the companies that provide it. After all, we're talking about how millions of Brazilians feed themselves.
Labor legislation establishes clear rules for granting these benefits.
Both are governed primarily by the Worker Food Program (PAT), a government initiative that aims to improve the nutritional conditions of employees.
It's a program that benefits public health and productivity. But where does the distinction lie between the two types of benefits? The answer lies in moment and in the local of consumption.
Advertisements
Unraveling Food Stamps (VA): Help for the Pantry
The Food Voucher, or VA, is the benefit intended for purchase of foodstuffs in natura. It allows the worker to fill the family pantry.
Its use is restricted to establishments such as supermarkets, butchers, bakeries and grocery stores.
The purpose of this aid is to supplement the household budget. It allows for the purchase of basic items for preparing meals at home.
It's food security for the entire month, a guarantee that the fridge and cupboard are stocked.
The VA is therefore the ideal partner for planning monthly purchases.
Think of the Food Voucher as a safe for purchasing raw materials.
It ensures that, regardless of unforeseen circumstances, the family's food supply will be secure. It's a benefit that has a broad impact on the household economy.
Read more: The Government is promoting social reintegration through labor benefits
Analyzing Meal Vouchers (VR): Focus on Daily Lunch
The Meal Voucher, the famous VR, is designed to cover the ready meals, especially during the workday. It is accepted in restaurants, cafes, and cafeterias.
This is the option employees use to eat lunch outside of their homes. This saves time and offers a variety of options during their work break.
VR has become synonymous with lunch breaks in big cities.
This benefit reflects the dynamics of modern work and urban life. Many professionals don't have the time or resources to prepare their own meals daily. VR emerges as the most practical solution.
In a context of traffic and fast-paced routines, having a Meal Voucher is a great help. It supports health and well-being during work hours. Its use is more specific, focused on immediate consumption.
The Big Choice: Which Benefit is Most Advantageous?
The decision between Food vouchers and meal vouchers depends on several factors. The worker's routine should be the first point to be considered.
For those who eat most of their meals at home, VA is undoubtedly the best option. VA offers greater purchasing power for household supplies.
For those who eat out every day, VR is essential.
Furthermore, many companies choose to provide both types of benefits simultaneously. This strategy offers the best of both worlds.
Employers should analyze their employee profile and the cost-benefit of each model. Flexibility in choice is a competitive advantage in the market.
++ What are the benefits of being a young apprentice? See now
A relevant point is the issue of card portability and interoperability. Since 2023, new PAT rules have made it easier to switch cards and use them across different networks.
This change expanded the beneficiary's power of choice.
As an analogy, Food Stamps are the foundation of a house (the pantry); Meal Stamps are the walls (the daily meals). Both are essential, but they serve different purposes.
| Feature | Food Voucher (VA) | Meal Voucher (VR) |
| Purpose | Food purchase in natura | Purchase of ready meals |
| Place of Use | Supermarkets, grocery stores, butchers | Restaurants, snack bars, cafeterias |
| Time of Use | Generally for monthly/weekly purchases | Generally, during the working day |
Intelligent Arguments and Strategic Choice
The strategic choice goes beyond the obvious. A worker who lives alone may prioritize the RV, as cooking at home may be less efficient. Conversely, a person with a family and children will prioritize the RV.
++ The food voucher iFood that's worth anywhere
It's important to note that these benefits are not salary-based. This means there are no social security contributions for either the company or the employee.
This is a tax incentive for companies.
THE PAT It is an intelligent system that balances tax incentives and social improvement.
According to data from the company itself Ministry of Labor and Employment (MTE), the Worker Food Program serves more than 24 million workers in Brazil.
This demonstrates the vast capillarity and socioeconomic importance of this benefit.
After all, why would companies neglect this talent attraction and retention tool?
++ How the Government is promoting digital inclusion for access to employment benefits
Example 1: Imagine Maria, who works in an office. She lives with her husband and two daughters.
Her VR covers her daily lunch, but the VA is essential for the weekend shopping that guarantees the family's dinner.
Conclusion: More than Benefits, an Investment
Food and meal allowances are more than just salary supplements. They represent a direct investment in the employee's quality of life.
The precise understanding of the difference between Food vouchers and meal vouchers empowers workers. Ensures they make the choices that best suit their circumstances.
For companies, it's a market differentiator, demonstrating care and social responsibility. This clarity is the first step to maximizing the use of these important resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the balance of the Food or Meal Voucher be withdrawn in cash?
No. The PAT legislation prohibits withdrawals. The balance must be used exclusively for the purchase of food or meals, depending on the purpose of each card.
Are companies required to offer Food Vouchers or Meal Vouchers?
There is no general obligation under the CLT. However, many union Collective Bargaining Agreements make granting the right mandatory.
Additionally, if a company chooses to participate in PAT, it must follow the program rules.
Can I use the Meal Voucher to buy food at the supermarket?
Although the PAT law defines specific uses, some chain establishments may accept VR, especially those that also sell prepared foods.
However, this practice is not standard and depends on the accrediting agency and the establishment. It is correct for use in restaurants.
