- Pack lunches in stainless steel or sturdy plastic bento boxes similar to the ones you see in Japanese restaurants. Complete with lids, they’re great for keeping foods neat and separate. Plus they make food look more appealing while keeping portion sizes to a minimum. Make sure the kids bring them home to fill up with the next day’s goodies.
- For keeping hot foods hot and cold foods cold, look for insulated reusable containers.
- Instead of packing wasteful plastic water bottles, try stainless steel beverage containers. They make a good vessel for water and other liquids.
- To keep plastic bags out of the landfill, pack sandwiches in reusable sandwich sacks. These bag-shaped containers can be found in fun prints and colors.
- Try cotton-blend “wraps” that secure a sandwich or other treats for travel. When unfolded, these “wraps” become a placemat for sandwiches and other snacks. Wash at the end of the day, and they’re ready for another round.
- When it comes time to pack everything up, look for reusable and washable totes and bags.
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Better Food For Kids by Joanne Saab, RD and Daina Kalnins, MSc, RD ($24.95, Robert Rose, 2010)
