K-State Research and Extension

School is about to get started again! Plan now if your kids are taking their lunch to school or eating the lunch provided. Here are some tips for packing a food safe lunch.

• Use an insulated container or lunch box to keep food safe until lunchtime. Use ice packs, frozen bottles of water or frozen juice boxes to help keep food cold.
• If packing hot foods, use a separate insulated container. Fill it with boiling water to get it heated before added hot food.
• Check with the school if a refrigerator is available to store cold lunches.
• Choose foods that are safe at room temperature such as whole or dried fruits, single serve fruit cups, baby carrots, cherry tomatoes, hard cheese like cheddar, whole grain crackers, peanut butter (be mindful of food allergies!), or dried meat jerky.
• Don’t forget to wash your hands!

Learn more at www.fsis.usda.gov/news-events/news-press-releases/dont-flunk-food-safety-school-year

Schools are busy welcoming kids back to the classroom! If you are packing them a lunch, keep these tips in mind:

• Introduce children to a variety of whole-grain breads and rolls. Try an unassembled one they can eat in stages.
• Veggies and dip are always a hit. Cut up carrots, cucumbers, broccoli, or cauliflower and pack with a small container of your child’s favorite low-fat dressing.
• Include a favorite item along with new foods. This way if the child doesn’t care for the new item, he or she will still have the old favorite.
• Keep foods safe. Use insulated bags with reusable ice packs to keep foods cool. Use a lunch box with rigid sides to keep foods from getting crushed.

More ideas and tips at http://food.unl.edu/august-food-calendar#backtoschool