Healthy Back to School Lunch Ideas
We just finished the first week of school here. Already I’ve seen my fair share of school lunches that terrify me! A can of soda, fruit snacks, and cookies is not the way to make it through the school day! I just want to bring those kids some healthy lunch options to help them make it through the afternoon!
Instead of complaining, I decided to offer some healthy back to school lunch ideas inspired by Hormel! Yes, I recently received a variety of Hormel products and they got me thinking. Everyone has back to school on the brain, so how could I put the products to good use?
3 Healthy Back to School Lunches
1. The Classic Sandwich goes clean. I see a lot of sandwiches as school. Peanut butter and jelly is pretty popular. But I see a fair share of lunch meat in the sandwiches as well. I know a lot of my mom friends are worried about things like nitrates when it comes to lunch meat. I did a little research and learned that the Hormel® Natural Choice® line is 100% natural meat! The meat contains zero preservatives, no added nitrites or nitrates, and no MSG! It’s also gluten-free!
2. Fruits and Veggies add crunch and sweetness! Veggies are a great way to add crunch to lunch time without adding fat and calories. Add a little dip to make it more appealing to younger kids. Or add a little peanut butter to celery sticks for a filling side. I also love dried fruits. They are sweet enough to curb my cravings after I’ve eaten a meal. Yes, I have a sweet tooth! You can add some nuts and raisins for a homemade trail mix!
3. Water is great for the brain! Adding a bottle of water to a school lunch is a great way to keep kids hydrated. It helps them stay on top of things physically and mentally! It’s one of the best supports a child can have throughout the day! Our students are allowed to keep a water bottle in the classroom to use during the day as well!
With a few changes, those lunches that make me shake my head could easily become lunches that help kids power through the school day! I know it can be tough. Packing lunches is one of my least favorite things to do, but it’s such an important part of the school day!
What challenges do you face when preparing school lunches?
About Mariah
I love that it has no MSG!
Ellen Christian recently posted..Save Money on Back to School with Sam’s Club & iHome Giveaway
I haven’t see Hormal lunch meat where I live but it sounds awesome and natural
Diva Locks recently posted..Nutrisystem: Week 15 #NSNation
Great tips! I always pack each of my kids a water bottle with their lunches!
Heather ~ Acting Balanced Mom recently posted..Sundays In My City – Exploring Downtown Charleston
That’s a good combination. I know my mom always found it challenging putting together lunches for me – being to picky.
tazim recently posted..Est Magazine Fashion Issue & Hacienda Inspiration
I also prefer to drink water or fruit juices than soda for my kids. I love your post.