How to Pack a Healthier, Greener Lunch
(Green School Lunches – Part 2)
by Liesl Bradner
So, now you’ve discovered just how unhealthy cafeteria food is at your child’s school, and if you don’t have the option of organic lunch delivery or non-junk food vending machines, here are some suggestions on how to pack a healthier, greener lunch.
- Instead of sandwiches made with higher-fat processed lunch meats like bologna, give turkey, chicken, tuna-fish or egg salad a try.
- Use whole-grain or rye bread or whole wheat tortillas.
- For an entrée, whip up some plain pasta or homemade soup (bring in a thermos) or a green salad made with lots of colorful veggies and balsamic dressing (pick up some cute little containers to store the dressing in).
- For snacks, pack fruit (fresh or dried), pretzels, baked chips, trail mix, veggies and dip, raisins, nuts, seeds, granola bars, yogurt or cheese sticks
- Fresh fruit (such as bananas, apple slices, grapes, blueberries, strawberries) are a better choice than fruits packed in heavy, sugary syrup. Try to choose fruit that is in season.
- Choose organic and locally grown foods as much as possible.
- Offer water to wash down their healthy meals. Stainless steel water bottles are a great option.
- To let them know their parents are not tyrants surprise them with an occasional homemade cookie or bar. Everything in moderation.
- Pack it all up reusable containers and lunch bags.
- It’s ok to have a cafeteria meal every once in a while just remind your kids about portion control and how to make the healthiest choices. No more super size!