(BPT) - As parents start getting kids back to school, one important topic looms large: What should you prep for lunches and snacks to make sure kids get the nutrition they need? This can be a source of anxiety for parents, as planning and packing better-for-you lunches can be time-consuming - and you want your kids to like the food you're sending to help fuel their day.
Fortunately, there are choices available that can ensure your kids' lunchboxes are filled with foods that are nutritious, easy to pack - and fun and tasty to eat.
"As we gear up to get kids ready for school, it's so important to pack nutrient-dense snacks for school lunches, and have options to satisfy after-school munchies," said Frances Largeman-Roth, RDN, best-selling author of Everyday Snack Tray, and nationally recognized health expert.
Here are tips to help you plan and pack school lunches for your kids this year.
Opt for nutrient-dense almond butter
With just one serving of JUSTIN'S® Classic Almond Butter (two tablespoons), you'll get 6 grams of plant-based protein and 3 grams of fiber, as well as calcium and iron.
JUSTIN'S® Almond Butter is great for meals on-the-go, and it's ready when you need it - breakfast crunch time, lunch fueling and after-school snacking. You can pack convenient, no-refrigeration-needed JUSTIN'S® Nut Butter Squeeze Packs in lunchboxes as is, or spread along with banana slices on bread for a tasty, nutritious alternative to traditional PB&Js.
"For an after-school snack, I love slicing up a medium banana and schmearing the top of each slice with a little JUSTIN'S® Classic Almond Butter, about two tablespoons. Then sprinkle a little unsweetened shredded coconut on top if you like," Largeman-Roth said.
JUSTIN'S® offers a variety of almond butter flavors, including JUSTIN'S® Honey Almond Butter, with the slight sweetness of organic honey plus a one-of-a kind grind that gives it a naturally delicious taste - perfect for pairing with fruits, veggies and crackers; for lunch or snacks; with oatmeal and toast in the morning; or simply enjoying straight out of the squeeze pack or jar.
Best yet, all of JUSTIN'S® delicious nut butter varieties including almond, peanut and other specialty nuts, pack 4-7 grams of protein per serving, providing high-quality products made with mindfully sourced ingredients. You can find their products at Justins.com/where-to-buy.
Pro tip: Let kids choose their favorite nut butters and add-ons - banana slices, jam, etc. - and have them help pack lunches ahead, so you'll know they're getting something they like.
Maximize your sandwiches by choosing natural, organic meats
Sandwiches are classic lunch fare for a reason: They're easy to pack and easy to eat. So why not make the most of them? These sandwich ingredients will help you level up this lunch staple.
If you're looking for great protein sources to include in kids' lunches, check out deli meat options from APPLEGATE®, which raises animals with their Applegate Humanely Raised standard, in which the animals are provided with space to engage in natural behaviors and promote natural growth, and with no antibiotics, added hormones or growth promotants. You can also feel good knowing that the meat you're buying is free of added chemical nitrates, nitrites, phosphates, artificial ingredients and preservatives.
Even better, their products taste great, and are easy to enjoy in lunches and for after-school snacking. Try these selections:
You can mix and match any of these tasty deli meats with your kids' favorite cheeses or toppings so they'll get the most nutrition possible packed into one great sandwich. Find other APPLEGATE® products and recipe inspo at Applegate.com/recipes.
Pro tip: Pack moisture-rich toppings and dressings separately to avoid soggy-bread syndrome! For example, sliced tomatoes or cucumbers, lettuce leaves, pickles or mayo can be stored in separate containers to help keep everything fresh and crisp.
Amp up the fun factor
Your kids may enjoy lunches more - and be more likely to eat them - if they have a part in their creation. For example, pack a pita or soft flour tortilla in their lunchbox along with sandwich fillings they like so they can create their own wrap or pocket sandwich at lunchtime. Ask for their input on what types of meats, nut butters, cheese, veggies and fruits they want included - but don't be afraid to think outside the lunch box.
"You know best what types of foods your child likes, and how adventurous they are (or not), so take your time introducing new ideas," said Largeman-Roth. "Try new foods at home first, over the course of a week or longer, to see how they respond before adding to their lunchbox - unless your kid enjoys surprises! Many children are more likely to eat foods they're already familiar with, so keep that in mind as you explore new options."
