Together with KESAB environmental solutions, we’ve launched a series of easy, affordable and nutritious recipes for the lunchbox that parents can make at home with the kids.
These five new recipes feature basic pantry staples and use commonly thrown away items. They are more affordable and nutritious than most store-bought packaged snacks which are often low in fibre and high in fat, salt and sugar.
What are some healthier snack options for the lunchbox?
Snacks don’t need to be complicated. Aim for something quick to eat, easy to hold, and nourishing enough to keep your child going between breaks. If mornings are busy, prepping a few snacks ahead of time or keeping a small ‘snack box’ in the pantry or fridge can make packing much easier.
You can find these three new snack recipes plus our Bean Dip and Homemade Pita ‘Chips’ in our downloadable Budget bites: Easy, healthy lunchbox recipes e-book.
Apple Pie Bliss Balls
This high-fibre snack is perfect for the lunchbox and fun to make with the kids! That slightly sad apple or pear in the fruit bowl or the fruit that came back in the lunchbox work well in this recipe.
Breakfast Banana Bliss Balls
Pressed for time during the school week or had a banana come home looking a little beaten? Make these high-fibre bliss balls with the kids on the weekend, ready to eat for breakfast or add to the lunchbox for recess.
Avocado Dip
Homemade dips are easy and affordable to make, plus they taste delicious. They’re also healthier for you compared to storebought dips, which are often high in unhealthy saturated fat and sodium.
Serve this delicious avocado dip with pita bread turned into pita chips in the sandwich press, grainy crackers or veggie sticks.
How can I improve the chance of my child eating the lunch I’ve packed?
Keep in mind that recess and lunch breaks are short. Choose foods that children can eat quickly and easily, mostly with their hands.
Encourage your child to help pack parts of their lunchbox or join in with food preparation. This might include making bliss balls or dips together on the weekend, cutting up fruit, portioning yoghurt into smaller containers or preparing sandwich fillings. Helping out can make children feel more confident, empowered, and excited about eating their lunch.
Try offering just one new item at a time, paired with foods your child already enjoys. Involve your child in choosing what goes into their lunchbox, for example, offer two options and let them decide.
What is ‘nude food’ and how can I add more to my child’s lunchbox?
‘Nude food’ is food without excess packaging – without foil, plastic or other wrapping. Nude food is often fresh produce or food prepared at home.
Our breakfast banana and apple pie bliss balls are made from ingredients that are often thrown away. So, if a banana or apple comes home in the lunchbox, why not turn it into a yummy bliss ball, perfect for after‑school snacks or popping back into the lunchbox the next day.
Other ‘nude food’ options include:
- cut up fruit
- homemade bread/pita bread ‘chips’
- trail mixes with seeds, nuts (if allowed), dried cereal and dried fruit
- plain, fruit or veggie muffins or slice
- homemade air-popped popcorn, stored in an airtight container.
