The Perfect Packed Lunch

Keeping your kids happy and healthy can be quite a challenge, what child is really going to want a banana in the lunchbox when they can have a Mars bar?

But there are ways you can make a packed lunch nutritious and tasty, follow our guide to creating the perfect lunch box and ensure the little darlings keep smiling.

The perfect packed lunch should ideally include starch, protein, dairy and a portion of fruit or vegetables. The starchy foods should make up a good proportion of the lunch as they are a good source of energy. Rather than sandwiches try bagels, pitta bread and pasta to spice it up a little, try to use wholemeal or brown bread as much as possible. A good way of getting your children to eat salad is by mixing it in a sandwich or pitta with cheese or ham (they may be more likely to eat it if it is hidden!)

Children are always going to be put off if you include a whole apple or pear in the lunch-box. Try chopping up a selection of fruits instead and making it into a little fruit salad. Fruits such as grapes and raspberries are other good options, as they are small and children are unlikely to be intimidated by the size. Raw carrots and peppers are another tasty but healthy treat, again chop them up as children enjoy eating with their fingers.

The occasional chocolate bar isn’t going to hurt anybody, but try replacing them sometimes with healthier options such as cereal bars, yoghurts and dried fruit and nuts. This way they will still be getting a treat but just a healthier alternative.

Small things such as having an exciting lunchbox can actually make the world of difference, if a child has a box they are proud of, lunch time will be a whole lot more exciting. John Lewis, Marks and Spencer’s and WH Smith do a great range of novelty boxes.

A week's worth of lunches:

Monday: