I commute about 15,5 kms one way. I never eat anything before I leave to work, but I drink (fruit juice, berry juice, water, whatever's available). When I come back from work, my stomach is usually empty as well.

Come to think of it, I'm no good in re-fueling during my bike tours either. I always have to remind myself to eat little at a time, many times a day. What is ok for 31 km / day commute really does not work for longer, loaded bike trips.

--J