If
packing a lunch that contains perishable items [lunch meats, eggs, yogurts,
refrigerated puddings, etc.], be sure to use freezer packs. This will allow the
food to remain cool, disabling the spread of bacteria on food. Another
alternative to freezer packs could be frozen juice boxes. By freezing the juice
boxes the night before, they become solid enough to keep the food cool and they
will have defrosted by lunchtime.
Aside
from using different “cooling” options, be sure that lunches are packed in
insulated lunch boxes. This will help maintain the original temperature for a
longer duration. While paper lunch bags are common, perishable food items could
be dangerous to eat by lunchtime when packed in a non-insulated bag. If packing
hot foods, use an insulated container to maintain the temperature. To achieve
better results, allow boiling water to sit in the container for a few minutes
prior to filling it with food. Don’t forget to remind kids to leave all lids on
food until lunchtime to ensure that no outside germs or bacteria sneak into the
containers.
After
enjoying a great lunch, remind kids to throw away all leftover food, including
plastic bags and disposable containers. Do not reuse any packaging aside from
tupperware that will be cleaned when kids arrive home. Bacteria or other
foodborne illnesses could linger from the time kids eat lunch to the time their
lunchbox gets unpacked. After ensuring that proper protocols are met for a safe
lunch, remember to make sure the lunch is healthy for growing kids!
Idea from: HealthDay
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