Tip 1: Get the kids involved
Give your kids healthy food options from each food group, and let them make the final decisions on what goes in their lunch.
Tip 2: Incorporate all food groups
A balanced diet includes all of the food groups. These include fruits, vegetables, meats or legumes, grains, and dairy products.
Tip 3: Encourage hydration
It is recommended that school- aged kids drink between 6-8 cups of water a day (even more in hot weather or if their activity level is high).
Tip 4: Make your own snacks and limit processed ones
Packaged snacks tend to lack important nutrients and can be high in sugar, sodium and saturated fats.
Tip 5: Get creative with veggies!
You can send raw baby carrots with some hummus dip, avocado dip or sour cream so they can enjoy it.
Tip 6: Pack the power Trio: fibre, Protein and Healthy Fat
These three nutrients are crucial to keep your child feeling energised throughout the day. Examples of this can include mixed nuts, whole grain toast with labneh or hummus and cucumbers.
Tip 7: Maintain food temperature to ensure the safety of food in lunchbox
Use a frozen water bottle or place it in the fridge the night before to maintain the temperature of the food in the lunchbox. If packing a hot lunch, like soup, use an insulated container or thermos to keep it hot.
Tip 8: Use the right lunch bag
An insulated or soft- sided lunchbox are preferable when dealing with perishable foods.
Tip 9: Prepare fresh foods day by day
Do not keep lunch leftovers for the next day’s lunch.
Tip 10: Refrigerate overnight
Leave the lunchbox in the fridge overnight if preparing the day before.