Drug use and its perceived consequences: A comparison of foodservice and non-foodservice employees

Abstract

From 2015 to 2016, positive tests for illicit drugs in the United States increased from 4.0% to 4.2%. This increase reflects a worsening illicit drug-use problem in foodservice and other industries. A survey of foodservice and non-foodservice employees revealed significant differences on demographics and illicit drug-use behavior. Chi-square tests indicated these differences between foodservice and non-foodservice employees on age, ethnicity, education, and illicit drug-use. Independent t-tests indicated a significant difference in illicit drug-use concerns between drug users and non-drug users. Research findings revealed foodservice employees tend to focus primarily on short-term consequences (productivity and lethargy) of illicit drug-use, which may help explain the rampant use of these substances. Foodservice industry professionals need to take a more active role in combating illicit drug use among employees by drug-testing, having clear policies and procedures, increasing accountability and comradery among the workforce, and communicating the long-term negative outcomes of illicit drug use.