Over 20% of the American work force is employed on shifts other than the typical 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.. The effects of shift work can be many and varied. Perceptions of health as well as the eating patterns of shiftworkers were investigated in this study. The methodology used yielded a small, statistically insignificant sample population of both fixed and rotating shiftworkers; yet, after analysis, certain trends of the population were revealed. The rotating shiftworker consumed fewer meals and snacks than the fixed shiftworker. Meals and snacks were defined based on a food taxonomy developed to describe food intake. Additionally, the rotating shiftworker ate less often than the fixed worker. Consuming a meal in the 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. not affected by shift among rotating shiftworkers. Caffeine containing beverages comprised a large part of the diet of shiftworkers. Coffee was consumed more by the older group, and caffeinated soft drinks were preferred by the younger employees. The health status perception of the shiftworker could be labeled as"good". There may be a positive correlation between the regular occurrence of nervous stomach and coffee consumption among the rotating shiftworkers. Nervous stomach may also be related to days taken due to sickness for the rotators. Shift work is a disruption for employees. The nature and frequency of these disruptions are as of yet, not fully realized. Findings from this study warrant further investigation on this topic. / M.S.