It's time to start thinking about the upcoming school year. If you're like most parents, you probably pack your kid's lunches and snacks at least some of the time. Packing a lunch versus
buying offers many advantages, such as reducing the waste from disposable bags and wrappers, allowing you to provide the healthy food choices you want your kids to have, letting you manage their portion sizes and even giving you the opportunity to save some money. But a critical part of packing a healthy lunch often overlooked - the container or wrap used. There are literally hundreds of choices for lunch containers available in the market today. So what should you consider when buying lunch containers?
Kids Konserve Food Kozy and Lunch Containers
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT LUNCH CONTAINER FOR YOUR KIDS:
- Consider containers that are versatile and can be used for over and over again for years - not only is this the environmentally responsible choice, it can save space and add convenience to your kitchen. Themed containers from movies and cartoons tend to get used for a year or two then tossed when your kids tire of them. Try stylish containers with colors your kids love that can double for other uses, such as storing herbs, cheese and other foods.
- The container material needs to be food safe, lightweight and durable - if your kids will be heating foods in a microwave or you use a dishwasher, consider this as well. Stainless steel is an excellent choice as it is free of BPA and phthalates, dishwasher safe, very lightweight and won't stain like some other materials. Stainless steel cannot be used in the microwave though. Plastic can also be a great choice for lunch containers because it's lightweight and versatile, but it is very important that the plastic used is free from BPA and other contaminants. How would you know? Check the container labeling or packaging. The retailer or manufacturer should be able to provide this information as well.
- Containers should seal securely yet be easy to open and close - this is a pet peeve of mine, given that more than once I've worn the contents of a lunch container I've struggled to open. Even if it's your kid's favorite container, it won't be of any use if little hands can't get it opened or closed. Containers with clips are one way to solve that problem as they are easy to use yet provide a tight seal. Another suggestion? Lunch box containers designed specifically for kids.
- Looking for leak proof? Make sure the container is designed to be leak proof - not all containers are, and nothing ruins a sandwich or baked tortilla chips faster than getting soaked in something like fruit juice. Just like with container materials, if a container is leak proof it will be labeled as such. If you are still unsure - contact the retailer before buying the container from them, they should gladly field questions regarding the containers they sell.
- Think of the environment when making your purchase - purchase high quality containers that can be used over and over again for years. Where possible, look for containers that are recyclable. How can you tell? Stainless steel and glass are 100% recyclable. For plastics, you will need to check with your local recycler. Most #5 plastic, such as the material used for many Sistema containers, is recyclable.
