Hy-Vee® KidsFit™

Going back to school means packing lunches for kids on the go. Making sure everyone’s lunchbox is filled with food that will keep them fueled all day and still getting out the door on time can be a tough task. Face the challenge head on with our top tips to make packing lunch quick and nutritious! 

Make it Nutritious

1. Focus on MyPlate food groups! Vegetables, fruit, protein, grains, and dairy. Aim for 3-5 food groups at every meal – including your packed lunch!
2. Research shows that we eat more fruits and veggies when paired with cheese! Pair pineapple and cucumber slices with delicious, Kraft string cheese!
3. Fill up on protein! Add a good source of protein to your lunch – like string cheese, peanut butter, Greek yogurt, deli meat, chicken, or beans – to keep you full until you get home!
4. Add some excitement to your lunch this year by using the “add it to a stick” method. Try salads on a stick by adding baby tomatoes, lettuce and cheddar cheese cubes to a kabob and pair with a side of your favorite salad dressing.
5. Think beyond the sandwich this year and try wraps or create veggie pizzas using English muffins!

Make It Quick

1. Pack a frozen water bottle in your lunch to keep your items cold and to stay hydrated!
2. Purchase single-serve items. This makes preparing your lunchbox quick and easy! A few examples include: Kraft string cheese, single serve air popped popcorn, fruit cups, Greek yogurt, trail mix pouches, or dressing cups.
3. Have fun with food this year by using cookie cutters to cut your sandwich! Or, mini cookie cutters to cut fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers or watermelon.
4. Trying to keep your food separated in your lunch box? Pick up muffin liners from the baking aisle for an easy DIY compartment in your lunchbox.
5. Peeling fruit can be tasking for little ones and may cause them to run out of time at their lunch hour during school.  Pick up already peeled mandarin oranges from your local Hy-Vee Short Cuts section.