Having a variety of nutritious foods at meals and snacks is important for people of all ages, and this includes in packed lunches. For children, studies show that when they are well-nourished they can concentrate longer and perform better at school. Include nutritious foods and drinks in lunches to help children be ready to learn.

Tips for packing a healthy and safe lunch:

• Plan ahead for lunches for the week. Use these ideas to make a grocery list;
• Get children involved in preparing foods and packing their lunches;
• Use leftovers for lunches to save time;
• Use a thermos to help keep hot foods hot. Warm the thermos with boiling water before filling it with hot food;
• Use an insulated lunch bag and a freezer pack to keep cold foods cold;
• Wash fresh vegetables and fruits in advance;
• Not all food that comes home in the lunch bag can be reused. Leftover sandwiches, hot foods, milk, yogurt and cheese are not safe to eat another day so don’t repack those foods. Also do not reuse wrappings;
• Wash reusable beverage and food containers with soap and hot water; and,
• Wash your hands before preparing food or eating and teach children to do this as well.

If you are preparing lunches for children under the age of four, some foods need to be modified to reduce the risk of choking. For more information click here.

Allergy Alert! Some healthy foods and drinks are not permitted at workplaces, schools or in child care due to allergy awareness. Check in on these policies and avoid packing those foods for lunch and snacks.

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