3 Tips for Adding Produce to Little Ones’ Lunchboxes

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Have a picky eater at home? Struggling to encourage little ones to try anything green?

Invite your kiddos to celebrate National Fruits and Vegetables Month this September by adding produce to their lunchboxes. Some children respond better to trying new foods when they’re asked to help in the kitchen, which makes packing lunchboxes a perfect opportunity to get the whole family in on the fun.

Try Bento Boxes
With individual compartments for different foods, bento boxes – especially ones that feature favorite characters or fun colors – help encourage kids to eat a variety of proteins, produce, nuts and more. Fill a few sections with foods you know he or she will eat, like a turkey rollup, crackers and a mini chocolate for dessert, then add a few berries and grapes to the last section for a combination of favorites and new flavors.

Pair Fruits and Veggies with Familiar Favorites
If Junior won’t go for celery sticks, make them a bit more appetizing by filling with peanut butter and raisins. Add berries or chopped fruit to yogurt, mix bite-sized pieces of produce with dried cereal or pair baby carrots with ranch dressing.

Add Veggies to Sandwiches and Wraps
Remember that turkey wrap? It can be a veggie vehicle in disguise. Start simple by adding lettuce one day and slowly build up to layering lettuce, tomato slices, grated carrots, roasted veggies and spinach.

When your little one is ready for more lunchbox experimenting, find more recipes by following us on Facebook and YouTube and subscribing to our free weekly newsletter.