Fall is just around the corner, and it is time to start planning for school lunches and snacks again. If you are brown bagging it to work, then these tips are also for you! Packing your own lunch has many advantages – it saves money, it can be more nutritious, you can pack the things that you enjoy and if you have food allergies, it gives you more control of safe options to eat.
1. Insulated bags
If you are going to bring your own lunch with you on a regular basis, an insulated bag is a must. They come in a variety of sizes, prices, and designs. They range in size from extra large to small snack or light lunch size. Make sure you purchase one that is size appropriate – just big enough for your lunch and an ice pack, if no refrigeration is available.
2. Use a Thermos
If you plan on bringing hot foods, a thermos will come in handy. These also come in a range of sizes and styles, from small soup sized containers to large sizes that hold a pot of coffee. Thermoses are great to pack soups, stews, chili and even macaroni and cheese. They can also be used for cold items, just put them in the refrigerator or freezer prior to filling to help keep cold foods cold.
3. Ice Packs
Invest in several ice packs. They are reusable and you can keep several in the freezer so that you always have one handy.
4. Create Your Own Ice Packs
You can also freeze water or juice in small bottles to use as ice packs. They will thaw in time for lunch and will help keep your items cold. Just make sure you leave plenty of space for the liquid to expand and to keep the bottle from breaking or leaking.
5. Prepack Cold Foods
Prepack your cold foods the night before. Preparing vegetables ahead of time can save you time and money. Snack sized bags of fruits and veggies can be prepared a few days in advance, and they are ready to go when you are! Remember, many fruit are already naturally packaged. All you must do is include them in your meal.
6. Save Money
Save money by portioning out larger bags of goodies into snack sized bags. Chips, cookies, crackers can be prepared ahead of time.
7. Microwave Access
If you have access to a microwave, prepack leftovers into containers for your lunch. These can be the compartmentalized trays, or you can just reuse containers from other food items. Just make sure that they are microwavable and dishwasher safe.
8. Refrigerator Access
If you have access to a refrigerator to store foods, salads are a great option. Pack the dressing in a separate container to ensure that your salad stays nice and crisp.
9. Frequent Travel
If you travel frequently, keep a container or basket that holds salt, pepper, paper plates, utensils, and other items that you use regularly.
10. Reusable Containers
Small, reusable containers can be purchased from a variety of manufacturers and are great for portioning out ½ cup portions of cottage cheese, pudding, nuts, peanuts, and mashed potatoes. Don’t limit yourself to only these foods. Be creative!
11. Remember to eat your lunch
Sometimes we get busy and forget. Just remember to eat your meal the same day that you take it with you, preferably within 4-6 hours. You don’t want to eat it after it has been sitting around for several days on a shelf without refrigeration.
Taking your meals with you can be an enjoyable experience. Just remember the rules of food safety! Remember that hot foods need to be kept hot and cold foods need to be kept cold. Avoid items that have eggs or mayonnaise in them if you do not have access to a refrigerator. If your cold food is not cold, do not eat it! It is not worth paying the price of foodborne illness. And please remember, always wash your hands before opening that lunch!