Healthy Lunchbox

🍎 Healthy Lunchbox Swaps – Easy Ideas for Nourishing Snack Alternatives

Submitted by Julie Martin, Accredited Practising Dietitian

Packing a healthy lunchbox doesn’t have to be complicated — simple swaps can go a long way in fuelling kids’ energy, focus and wellbeing throughout the school day. Many packaged snacks are high in added sugars, salt, and unhealthy fats, but the good news is there are plenty of easy, nourishing alternatives!

Here are a few quick swap ideas:

• Swap fruit straps or roll-ups 👉 for fresh fruit like grapes, apple slices or a small banana
• Swap flavoured rice crackers 👉 for plain wholegrain crackers + cheese or hummus
• Swap muesli bars 👉 for homemade bliss balls or mini wholemeal muffins
• Swap sweetened yoghurt tubs 👉 for plain yoghurt + berries or a drizzle of honey
• Swap sweet biscuits 👉 for popcorn (plain or lightly salted) or veggie sticks with dip

Making just a couple of these swaps can support better nutrition and help kids stay satisfied and focused throughout the day. Try involving your child in packing their lunchbox too – they’re more likely to enjoy what they’ve helped choose!

🥥 Easy Bliss Ball Recipe (Nut-Free)

A fun lunchbox snack to make with your child!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup pitted dates (softened in warm water if needed)
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• ½ cup desiccated coconut (plus extra for rolling)
• 1 tbsp sunflower seeds or chia seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients into a food processor and blend until sticky.
2. Roll into small balls and coat with extra coconut.
3. Store in the fridge in an airtight container.

These are nut-free and lunchbox-friendly — perfect for school snacks!