Nestle USA’s Prepared Food business has agreed to pay US$5.1m in back-wages to around 6,100 current and former workers after an investigation by the US Department of Labor.

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The payments represent compensation for time spent on pre-work and post-work activities, such as putting on or removing uniforms, a spokesperson for the company told just-food.


“Nestle fully cooperated with the US Department of Labor in this settlement, and we are pleased that we now have clarity on the issue of appropriate compensation for pre- and post-work activities,” the spokesperson said. 


“The guiding principle we followed in resolving this issue is the same one we observe in our Nestle operations everyday – our goal is always to treat our employees fairly.”


Included in the settlement were workers at six facilities that manufacture either Stouffer’s and Lean Cuisine frozen meals or Hot Pockets and Lean Pockets frozen sandwiches for Nestle Prepared Foods.

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The settlement will not have a material impact on Nestle USA’s results, the spokesperson said.


“This settlement will not impact our operations. We are fortunate; Nestle is in good position, with great employees and steady business.”

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