5 Healthy Lunchables Alternatives That Are Better for Your Kids
Healthy alternatives to Lunchables like Simple Truth, Good & Gather, Greenfield, and Armour offer nutritious, organic options with no artificial additives, catering to health-conscious parents and providing variety for picky eaters.
Lunchables have been a popular snack choice for kids for years, offering a convenient and fun way to eat on the go. However, with growing concerns about nutrition and the impact of processed foods on our children’s health, many parents are looking for healthier alternatives to these premade lunch kits.
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1. Simple Truth Lunch Kits
Simple Truth is a brand known for its commitment to providing affordable, organic, and natural food products. Their lunch kits contain ingredients like whole-grain crackers, lean meats, and fresh fruits or vegetables, offering a more nutritious option than traditional Lunchables. Additionally, these kits are free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, making them a great choice for health-conscious parents. They are Kroger’s in-house brand.
2. Good & Gather
Good & Gather is Target’s house brand, which focuses on delivering high-quality, affordable food options for families. Their lunch kits include wholesome ingredients such as whole-grain crackers, lean meats, and real cheese. With a variety of options available, there’s sure to be a kit that appeals to even the pickiest eaters in your household.
3. Greenfield Lunch Kits
Greenfield Natural Meat Co. is a brand that prides itself on providing meat products from animals raised without antibiotics or added hormones. Their lunch kits are made with high-quality meats and other natural ingredients, giving parents peace of mind about the food their children are consuming. These kits also come in a variety of flavors, ensuring there’s an option for every taste preference.
4. Armour LunchMakers
Armour LunchMakers offers a convenient and affordable alternative to traditional Lunchables. These kits include lean meats, cheese, and whole-grain crackers, making them a more nutritious option for kids. They also come in a variety of flavors, so your child can enjoy a different combination each day.
5. Hormel Natural Choice Snacks
Hormel’s Natural Choice line focuses on providing healthier snack options made with natural ingredients. Their snack packs include combinations of lean meats, cheese, whole-grain crackers, and even dark chocolate, offering a tasty and satisfying option for kids on the go. Plus, these kits don’t contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, making them a better choice for health-conscious parents.
DIY Healthy Lunchables
One of the best ways to ensure your child is eating a nutritious lunch is by making it yourself. DIY healthy Lunchables can be just as fun and convenient as store-bought options but with the added benefit of controlling the quality of the ingredients.
Some ideas for homemade Lunchable components include whole-grain pita bread for a pizza crust, fresh fruits and vegetables, and lean meats like turkey or chicken. This allows you to avoid harmful chemicals and toxins found in many packaged foods while still providing a fun and enjoyable meal for your child.
Control of Ingredients & Chemicals
When you make your own Lunchables, you have complete control over the ingredients used. This means you can choose organic and natural products, avoid artificial additives, and ensure your child is getting a meal made with real, fresh ingredients.
Plus, you can cater to any dietary restrictions or allergies your child may have, making it a more inclusive option for families.
Reduction of Plastic Waste
By making your own lunch kits, you can also significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste generated by purchasing pre-packaged options. Many reusable containers are available, such as stainless steel lunchboxes, which offer an eco-friendly alternative to disposable plastic packaging. This not only helps the environment but also saves you money in the long run.
Fun & Nutritious Elements to Incorporate
Lean Meats
Instead of processed meats that are high in sodium and preservatives, opt for lean meats like turkey or chicken when making your lunch kits. These options provide protein without unnecessary additives and are better for your child’s overall health.
Whole-Grain Crackers
Whole-grain crackers are a great source of fiber and nutrients, making them a healthier choice than traditional refined crackers. Look for options with minimal added sugars and simple ingredient lists to ensure you’re providing the best option for your child.
Fun Elements
Just because you’re making a healthier version of Lunchables doesn’t mean it can’t be fun! Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes with meats, cheeses, and fruits, or let your child personalize their lunch kit by choosing their favorite combinations of ingredients. The more involved your child is in the process, the more likely they are to enjoy and eat their homemade lunch.
Possible Concerns About Lunchables & Limiting Consumption
Nutritional Value
While some store-bought Lunchables may be convenient, it’s crucial to recognize that they often lack essential nutrients, like fruits, vegetables, fiber, and dairy, that children need for their growing bodies. Additionally, many of these kits are high in sodium and saturated fat, which can contribute to long-term health issues if consumed regularly. By opting for healthier alternatives or making your own lunch kits, you can ensure your child is getting a more balanced and nutritious meal.
Limiting Consumption
If your child enjoys traditional Lunchables, it’s important to limit their consumption and encourage healthier meal choices.
This doesn’t mean they can never have a store-bought Lunchable, but consider making them an occasional treat rather than a daily meal option. Encouraging a well-rounded diet will help set your child up for a lifetime of healthy eating habits.
Choosing Healthier Options
When selecting store-bought lunch kits, make sure to read labels carefully and choose options with fewer artificial additives and a higher nutritional value. Look for brands that prioritize organic and natural ingredients, ensuring your child is consuming a healthier meal even when you’re short on time.
What is similar to Lunchable?
Similar to Lunchables, pre-packaged snack trays and DIY bento boxes are convenient meal options that often include a combination of cheese, crackers, and deli meats.
What are Kroger Lunchables called?
Kroger Lunchables are called “Kroger Snack Kits” or “Simple Truth Lunch Kits” and they offer a variety of combinations featuring meat, cheese, and crackers, much like the popular Lunchables brand.
Why are Lunchables so hard to find?
Lunchables can be hard to find due to high demand, limited production capacity, or supply chain disruptions affecting the availability of ingredients and packaging materials.
Why are Lunchables in short supply?
Lunchables may be in short supply because of factors such as increased demand, manufacturing challenges, or disruptions in the supply chain for ingredients and packaging materials.
What are some healthy Lunchables?
Some healthy Lunchables alternatives include DIY bento boxes with whole grain crackers, lean protein, fresh fruits, and vegetables, or pre-packaged snack trays featuring nutritious options like hummus, nuts, and seeds.
