Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has dismissed approximately 24 workers at its Los Angeles office for misusing their $25 meal vouchers to buy non-food and household products, according to a report from Fox Business. The Financial Times initially reported the story, referencing sources who indicated that Meta took action after discovering that the food credit system was being “abused” for purchasing items like detergent, wine glasses, and acne pads rather than food. Some even combined their funds to send meals home rather than eating at the office, it added. Meta had not replied to the publications’ questions at the time of publishing. The Details. Meta provides a daily food allowance of $75, which includes $20 for breakfast and $25 for both lunch and dinner, according to the Fox report. Those who were terminated were frequent “abusers” of the policy, while occasional violators received a warning, as reported. The report also mentioned a former Meta employee who earned $400,000 and shared on the anonymous job site Blind that they used the $25 meal credits to buy groceries. Describing the experience as “surreal,” the employee stated that they confessed to the misuse when Meta’s HR started their investigation and were subsequently dismissed. Job cuts affected WhatsApp, Instagram, and Reality Labs. On October 17, The Verge announced that Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Reality Labs, is conducting layoffs throughout its various divisions. The layoffs are part of a larger team restructuring instead of a company-wide cut, it noted. Meta confirmed the layoffs in a statement, stating that this decision aims to align resources with its long-term goals. “This involves relocating some teams and transitioning certain employees to new positions,” the company explained. Meta highlighted its commitment to supporting affected individuals, stating that it is actively seeking alternative opportunities for employees whose jobs have been cut.
