I don’t like liberal sympathizers, crony capitalists, and all that, but principle is principle. A lunch at work is not part of pay, unless the lunch received by a client taken out for lunch is also income for that client. It isn’t. It’s a business expense. Nor is your food at your house. It is a living expense. It isn’t taxed.
So, if I were these companies, I’d just put out a buffet in the lobby for guests and anybody else who fills a plate. No sign-in required.
The IRS abuses its power, it has too much power, and this is nothing more than the IRS flexing its muscles.
But your food at home is hit with income tax.
You just made the argument for the IRS.
I understand your point, but IMHO it's not the same. When a client is taken out for lunch or dinner, it's a business expense because you are trying to either receive or keep that client's business. The client is not an employee, and the presumption is that the amount of money received from that client will be much more than the cost of the lunch or dinner.
On the other hand, when you are an employee, whatever you receive from your employer is a form of compensation. If they gave you an extra $8-$10 per day to buy your own lunch or dinner, it would be looked at as a form of compensation, so why should it be viewed any differently if they give you the food instead of the money to buy the food?