July 29, 2025
Healthy Lunchbox Building Blocks
A healthy lunch fuels focus, energy, and mood, everything your child needs to succeed at school. But packing nutritious meals doesn’t have to be complicated! Use our easy building blocks to build balanced, kid-friendly lunches all week long.
Lunchbox Building Blocks
Mix and match from each category to keep lunches fresh, colorful, and full of variety:
Protein Power
Keeps kids full and supports growth & learning
- Grilled chicken slices or turkey roll-ups
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Hummus or bean dip
- Cheese sticks or cubes
- Greek yogurt
- Tuna or chicken salad (on crackers or in a wrap)
- Nut or seed butter (sunbutter for nut-free schools)
- Mini turkey or ham meatballs
- Cottage cheese
Fruits & Veggies
Packed with vitamins, fiber, and hydration
- Apple slices, grapes, or clementines
- Carrot sticks or cucumber rounds
- Cherry tomatoes or snap peas
- Dried fruit (in moderation)
- Smoothie pouches
- Bell pepper strips with dip
- Frozen berries (they thaw by lunch!)
Whole Grains
For lasting energy and digestive health
- Whole grain bread or wraps
- Mini whole wheat pitas
- Brown rice or quinoa salad
- Whole grain crackers or pretzels
- Homemade energy bites with oats
Smart Snacks
Add a little fun without the sugar crash
- Trail mix (with dried fruit & seeds)
- Air-popped popcorn
- Mini muffins (made with applesauce or banana)
- Low-sugar granola bars
- Homemade banana chips or roasted chickpeas
Better-for-You Drinks
Keep kids hydrated & focused
- Water (flavored with fruit if needed)
- Milk or fortified milk alternatives
- 100% fruit juice (4 oz or less)
- Smoothies with fruit + yogurt
Lunchbox Tips
- Use reusable containers with compartments for easier packing
- Freeze yogurt tubes or water bottles to keep lunch cool
- Let kids help pick items—they’re more likely to eat it
- Prep fruits and veggies ahead to make mornings easier
- Keep portions small for little appetites, and always include a napkin or hand wipe