PERFECT PACKED LUNCHES

As the new school year approaches, parents across the UK are grappling with the pressures of packing nutritious, appealing, and varied lunches for their children. Balancing the need for healthy options with children’s preferences and ensuring the lunch is eaten can be a source of significant stress. New research from Warburtons reveals that 60% of parents worry about making sure their child’s packed lunches are nutritious, with only 26% believe what they’re giving them is hitting the nutrition mark.

Presenter, Girls Aloud Singer and mum of three, Kimberley Walsh has joined forces with Warburtons and dietician, Lucy Kerrison, to help guide parents to make healthy, balanced packed lunches and assure parents that back-to-basic lunches, such as sandwiches, can be part of a healthy balanced diet.

According to dietician, Lucy Kerrison, the ‘ideal’ kids lunch box should contain: 

• 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

Kimberley Walsh says: “As a busy mum of three, I understand the pressures that comes with trying to make healthy, nutritious packed lunches for your kids, and it’s interesting to see from the research that other mums feel the same. Working with Warburtons and a dietician has really helped me understand that going back-to-basics with a delicious sandwich is one of the best ways to ensure your child is getting all the correct nutrients they need.”

Mum knows best!

Interestingly, parents spend almost 20 minutes planning and preparing their school lunchboxes each day. While 64% have left notes for their little ones in them – expressing love and affection, jokes or funny messages and motivational words. 

For more information on Warburtons’ full range of products to choose from for any lunchbox, visit www.warburtons.co.uk