Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

What does meals per labor hour measure?

1. The total meals compared to total labor hours

2. The efficiency of meal production per employee

3. Job performance of food service staff

4. The average hours required to produce each meal

The correct answer is: The total meals compared to total labor hours

The correct understanding of meals per labor hour is best captured by the concept that it measures the total meals produced relative to the total labor hours worked. This metric provides insights into the effectiveness of labor within a food service operation. By calculating meals per labor hour, managers can determine how efficiently staff is producing meals during their working hours. It serves as a vital performance indicator, helping to identify areas for improvement in operational efficiency. Higher numbers signify better productivity and resource utilization, whereas lower numbers may indicate potential inefficiencies or the need for process improvements. Other options, while they touch on relevant aspects of labor and production, do not accurately define what meals per labor hour specifically represents. The focus here is squarely on the relationship between the amounts produced (meals) and the time invested (labor hours), making it a crucial metric for managing food service operations effectively.