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The standards for school lunch have evolved. Food selections changed in a way that have fewer kids getting in line for lunch, and a study by NPR revealed that most kids who attend public schools have fifteen minutes or less to eat. Also, many schools are requiring parents who pack a lunch for their children to do so in an eco-friendly way. Because quick cleanup and recyclable options are becoming more of a necessity when it comes to packed lunches, there are several green features of reusable lunch bags that may make them a good choice for your family.
1. Aluminum Water Bottles
Getting your kids to drink more water during the day can be a challenge, but since many schools frown on sending them to school with plastic water bottles, you may want to consider packing their lunch in a reusable lunch box that includes an aluminum water bottle. Having a reusable bottle may prompt your kids to fill up at the water fountain after gym or lunch and creates less trash for the school to dispose of. These bottles are also usually easy to clean and are lightweight enough to carry anywhere.
If you want your children to use the water bottle all day so that they stay hydrated, especially after recess or gym, then choose a lunch bag that includes an insulated wrap for the bottle. These wraps help keep water cooler longer and are usually removable for easy cleaning.
2. Reusable Food Compartments
You probably remember your own school days when you lugged a sack lunch to school in a paper bag with a sandwich tucked away in a resalable plastic bag. While these storage bags have been a part of packed lunches for years, many schools have asked that parents seek out greener options. If your child’s school has made this request, then consider using a zipperless lunch bag with built-in food compartments instead of plastic sandwich bags. These compartments not only cut down on waste but also keep food fresh.
There might be a hygienic advantage to using a lunch box with food compartments as well. Your kids can eat directly from the container and their food will never touch the cafeteria table, where it may pick up cold and flu germs. Keeping food contained may keep your child healthier throughout the school year.
3. Additional Storage Options
If your kids have activities during or after school and want to carry extras snacks or drinks, using Kid’s Lunch Boxes with additional storage spaces can help to reduce the need for plastic storage bags. Many styles include space for additional drinks and snacks, such as a piece of fruit or trail mix. This may not only cut back on waste but also allows you to pack your child a healthy snack instead of them sharing chips or candy with their friends at school.
With more schools choosing greener options, making the switch to reusable lunch boxes for your children has several advantages. Your kids will enjoy being able to choose a design they can enjoy all school year and you will feel good knowing you are making better choices for the environment.
