Non ultra-processed packed lunch ideas for kids

We all know that giving your kids a healthy balanced lunch can do wonders for their energy and concentration throughout the day at school. But finding non ultra-processed options that kids will actually eat can be a challenge. Many of these snacks, despite being advertised as ‘healthy’ and ‘high in vitamins,’ are often ultra-processed and packed with hidden sugars and additives.

So, what are the best natural lunchbox options out there? We’ve found the best non ultra-processed snacks to include in your child’s lunchbox.

Non Ultra-Processed Kid’s Lunch Box Snacks – At A Glance:

BEAR Fruit Yoyos

Looking for a sweet treat that’s both tasty and healthy? BEAR Fruit Strawberry Yoyos are a fantastic option. Made with just four ingredients, BEAR Fruit Yoyos are a great natural snack. Plus, with 2g of fibre, they support the daily fibre needs of children.

  • Minimal ultra-processing: contains ‘extract’ of black carrot which won’t contain all the nutrients of the whole vegetable

  • Cost per serve: £0.57

  • Calories: 56

  • Fat: 0.0g

  • Sugar: 8.4g

  • Fibre: 2.0g

  • Protein: 0.4g

Whitworths Sunny Raisins

A long-time favourite for children’s lunchboxes, Whitworths Sunny Raisins are a great minimally processed snack.

  • Minimal ultra-processing: contains sunflower oil which is often refined and bleached

  • Cost per serve: £0.13

  • Calories: 47

  • Fat: 0.1g

  • Sugar: 9.3g

  • Fibre: 0.5g

  • Protein: 0.5g

Babybel Mini Original Cheese

Kids cheese snacks can be tricky, as most of them are ultra-processed. But the much-loved Babybel is completely non ultra-processed! Plus, it’s rich in protein which will help keep your children fuller for longer.

  • Non ultra-processed

  • Cost per serve: £0.36

  • Calories: 59

  • Fat: 4.6g

  • Sugar: 0.0g

  • Fibre: 0.0g

  • Protein: 4.4g

Organix Kids Organic Oaty Bars

Organix Kids produce a wide range of natural kids’ snacks. Plus, each Oaty Bar contains 3g of fibre, which is great for kid’s gut health.

  • Minimally processed

    • Contains sunflower oil which is often bleached and refined before use in food manufacturing

    • Apple juice from concentrate. Juice from concentrate is considered ultra-processed as it removes the fruit pulp and, as a result, many nutrients.

  • Cost per serve: £0.50

  • Calories: 94

  • Fat: 3.5g

  • Sugar: 5.1g

  • Fibre: 3.0g

  • Protein: 1.8g

Asda Apple, Strawberry & Cherry Smoothie

Finding soft drinks that aren’t ultra-processed can be tough, but this ASDA Apple, Strawberry & Cherry Smoothie is a great option. Made using only real fruit (not from concentrate), this smoothie is a refreshing drink to add to your child's packed lunch. Just be mindful of the sugar content, as it’s quite high in natural sugars (about 4 teaspoons per smoothie).

  • Non ultra-processed

  • Cost per serve: £0.44

  • Calories: 78

  • Fat: 0.2g

  • Sugar: 16g

  • Fibre: 0.5g

  • Protein: 0.6g

Organix Kids Crunchy Waves

Crisps are a favourite snack, but it’s hard to find natural crisps - they are usually full of additives and tend to be ultra-processed. Organix Kids Crunchy Waves are great healthier option to add to your child’s lunchbox.

  • Minimally ultra-processed: the contain powdered vegetables, which contain less nutritional value than the complete vegetable.

  • Cost per serve: £0.66

  • Calories: 59

  • Fat: 2.0g

  • Sugar: 0.8g

  • Fibre: 1.2g

  • Protein: 2.0g

What about sandwiches, should I make them for my child’s packed lunch?

Sandwiches are a lunchbox classic, but most soft loaves are ultra-processed, packed with additives. Instead, opt for natural bread options with fewer ingredients. Here’s a list of non ultra-processed breads you can find in your supermarket. Consider a protein-rich filling for your child’s sandwich, like eggs, cheese or chicken. Try to avoid ultra-processed cold cuts.

Quick Tips for a Healthy Packed Lunch for Your Children

Here are 3 simple tips to boost the nutritional value of your kid’s lunch box:

  1. Boost Protein: Add natural protein sources like boiled eggs, cheese or chicken to keep your child fuller for longer.

  2. Healthy fats: we all know vegetables are good for our kids, but pairing them with a healthy fat like avocado, extra virgin olive oil or full-fat yoghurt can actually help the body absorb more of the vitamins from the vegetables!

  3. Complex carbs: complex carbohydrates are best for slow-release energy. Whole-grain bread for sandwiches and fruits like bananas, apple and mangoes are great lunchbox additions.

By choosing non-ultra processed lunchbox snacks, you can give your kids with nutritious, wholesome meals that fuel their bodies and minds without the hidden additives.

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