Meta announced on the 17th of the last month the dismissal of about twenty employees from the Los Angeles, USA office, due to misuse of meal benefits. Brazil has strict legislation regarding the use of meal and food benefits, as outlined by the Worker’s Food Program (PAT).
THEfood voucher, also known as VA, can be used for shopping at supermarkets, bakeries, grocery stores, butchers, produce markets, and small shops, but exclusively for food-related items such as fruits, vegetables, greens, meats, among others. It is the ideal option for those who prefer to takelunch boxand have meals within the company itself.
THEmeal voucher,or VR, it can be used solely for the payment of meals in restaurants, snack bars, and similar establishments, or delivery apps to purchase set meals, self-service meals, snacks, juices, sodas, or desserts.It is also possible to purchase food products at commercial establishments.
What you can't buy with VA or VRalcoholic beverages, cigarettes and tobacco products, and household appliances.
Using the VR or VA balance for other purposes is not permitted by law precisely to ensure the worker's food security. The benefits must be used exclusively for the original purpose: food security and health, without withdrawal or transfer of balance.
Created nearly 50 years ago, it is worth emphasizing that the PAT has established itself as one of the most successful public policies, currently protecting more than 20 million workers from over 300,000 companies, especially workers earning up to five minimum wages, according to the Ministry of Labor and Employment.
Willian Gil, the Executive Director of Corporate Governance and Government Relations at VR, is available to comment on the subject, as well as the rules and specifics of Brazilian legislation.
With over 16 years of experience in the private market,Willian Gil, Executive Director of Corporate Governance and Government Relations at VR, oversees regulatory risk management strategies, engaging with various authorities and stakeholders, and represents the company institutionally on matters of interest. Lawyer by training, Willian holds a postgraduate degree in Business Law from Fundação Getúlio Vargas (FGV), completed a Results Management course at Fundação Dom Cabral (FDC), served as a mentor in leadership programs applied in Latin America, and has been a speaker on topics related to the corporate market.
