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School lunch tips

Making lunch for the kids doesn't have to be a chore this school year

It’s back to school time and for many families, balancing packed schedules and activities can make creating healthy lunches a challenge.

The Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) provides some ideas and tips to make it easier for parents to keep mealtimes healthier:

• Get colourful and create a food rainbow at every meal with selections from all four food groups of Canada’s Food Guide.

• Try limiting the amount of processed food and stick with whole food at meals.

• Even in the winter months when there are fewer fresh options, frozen or canned vegetables and fruit are great alternatives to keep meals nutritious.

• Homemade lunches and snacks can save money as compared to the pre-packaged alternatives. Involve your kids in preparing lunches and to help with meal ideas.

• Instead of including a favorite “junk” food as a snack, incorporate a healthy alternative.

• Use containers in lunches with separate compartments so dips, veggies, fruit, cheese and crackers can stay separate and fresh for lunchtime.