Packed to perfection
Published
More than 1 in 2 parents worry about making sure their child’s packed lunches are nutritious, claims new research commissioned by Warburton. So the bread-making company have teamed up with dietician Lucy Kerrison and Girls Aloud singer and mum-of-three Kimberley Walsh to help parents pack a healthy, balanced lunchbox.
This should include:
- One portion of starches (like bread, pasta, or rice) to support brain function, energy levels and to provide iron and B vitamins.
- 1-2 portions of veggies (like cucumber, carrot, or pepper) to support healthy bowel movements and mineral intake.
- One portion of fruit (such as oranges, apples, or bananas) to support vitamin intake.
- One portion of dairy or alternatives (like yogurt, cheese, or plant-based milk) to support calcium intake.
- One portion of protein (such as meat, fish, or beans) to support growth and muscle function.
The survey of 800 packed lunches revealed that the average child’s lunchbox includes a sandwich, a pack of crisps and an apple. No less than 81 per cent of parents pack sarnies because they consider them the ‘safest’ option their kids will eat, with 1 in 5 using the same filling daily – generally ham or cheese. A yoghurt was the top ‘sweet treat’ added, followed by biscuits and a chocolate bar. Interestingly, parents spend almost 20 minutes planning and preparing school lunchboxes each day.
Lucy Kerrison comments: ‘Sandwiches are a great lunch time option, They offer a cost-effective way to power your kids through the school day, whilst still providing the nutritional balance they need – from fibre, B vitamins and calcium to the essential fats and protein within the sandwich fillings.’
Visit www.warburtons.co.uk
