A Guide to Choosing a Lunch Box for Back to School

As you shop for back to school supplies for your children, one of the things likely on your list is a new lunch box…..but “what kind should I buy?” is the question you are likely asking yourself. This is a very important, yet confusing topic for many parents, so we’ll post this again!

Like you, many parents and caregivers often struggle with knowing what to pack for their child’s lunch during the school day – I agree, it’s not always easy. With so many restrictions and limitations in schools today, packing lunches can be very difficult. It’s no longer as simple as throwing in a peanut butter sandwich in a plastic lunch bag or some leftovers in a container for your child to warm in the microwave; this is why the proper lunch box and containers are a must!

Ideal lunch boxes and containers should be:

• BPA-Free– The lunch box should be safe to store food inside.
• Stay Fresh– A box that will seal and keep all unwrapped items fresh
• Easy to Clean– I prefer one lid for the lunch box, easy to clean and store when drying
• Sections– Separate spaces to place different foods
• Size– It’s not too big to fit into your kid’s school bag, or take up most of the space
• Perfect Portions– Sections that are big enough for the amount of food your kids will eat
• Reusable – Save the environment and your pocket, don’t use plastic bags
• Dishwasher safe– For those days you don’t have time to hand wash
• Easy to store– not too bulky to store when not in use
• Machine Washable– lunch bags can easily be washed in the washing machine

When packing your child’s lunch, don’t forget the importance of food safety – keep cold foods cold, and warm foods warm. Some tips to ensure this:

• Use an insulated bag
• Use ice packsto keep foods cold
• Use thermosto keep warm foods warm (most schools no longer have microwaves, so purchasing a good thermos will be very beneficial)

Information retrieved from: https://theorganisedhousewife.com.au/lunchbox-ideas/a-guide-to-choosing-the-best-lunch-box-for-kids/

Janel Genge is a Registered Dietitian with Kids Eat Smart Foundation Newfoundland and Labrador