Healthy, nutritious, and delicious lunch box snacks are the secret to happy, productive, and high-energy kids at school. You want to set them up for success, but packing lunches for kids can be difficult.
As parents and caregivers, one of our constant challenges is ensuring that our children eat well, especially when they're away from home. The lunch box becomes our trusty companion in this endeavor, packed with a medley of nutritious and delicious snacks that will keep our little ones energized and happy throughout the school day.
What To Look For with the Best Lunch Box Snacks
- Healthy
- Nutritious
- Travels Well
Beef Jerky is a great example of the perfect lunch box snack because it provides a convenient source of protein and nutrients, making it a suitable option for active children and on-the-go situations.
Plus, there are so many different flavor options, as you can see in our One-Of-Everything Jerky Box, there’s something for every kid.
Continue reading for more of the right lunch box ideas that are not only tasty but nourishing as well.
Fruit Frenzy: Lunch Box Fruits
Fruits are nature's candy, and they make for some of the overall best lunch box snacks for kids.
1. Apple Slices
Apples are a good lunch box snack for kids because they're naturally sweet, rich in fiber, and packed with vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health and provide sustained energy. You can even sprinkle them with cinnamon for some added flavor.
Shop at your local grocery store.
2. Frozen Grapes
Grab some grapes, put them in individual baggies, and throw them in the freezer the night before your kid goes to school the next day. This way the grapes will stay nice and cool but will be thawed by the time lunch comes around. These are always a hit amongst adults and children alike, and one of our favorite lunch box snack ideas.
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3. Banana Chips
Dried fruit is always a must. Banana chips are great because they carry all the same nutrients as normal bananas, but give your kid that satisfying crunch they look for while snacking on regular potato chips.
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4. Fruit Cups
Offer a refreshing twist on fruit with cups of fresh-cut fruits like watermelon, strawberries, and grapes. Make your own or get pre-packed ones from the store. Either way, this healthy option is almost always a fan favorite.
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Veggie Delights: Fresh Veggies
Vegetables can be a tough sell for kids, but with a little creativity, they can become lunchtime favorites.
5. Carrot and Celery Sticks
Carrot sticks are a good lunch box snack for kids because they're crunchy, low in calories, and packed with essential nutrients like vitamin A, which supports vision and immune health. Pair them with a small container of ranch or hummus for dipping. The perfect addition to any well balanced meal.
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6. Cucumber Slices
Similar to carrot sticks, cucumber slices are another healthy yet crunchy snack. Light, crunchy, and hydrating, these are guaranteed to leave your kid feeling satisfied after lunch time.
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7. Cherry Tomatoes
These mini-treats burst with flavor and are packed with vitamins and nutrients essential to your kids' growth. Plus, they pair well with almost everything.
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8. Bell Pepper Strips
Bell peppers can be an especially tricky snack to get your kid to eat; however, the vibrant colors and the crunch can make them more appealing. They’re good to throw in any lunch for kids because they provide a healthy dose of vitamins and antioxidants, promoting overall health and growth.
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Protein Powerhouses: Finger Foods Edition
Protein is essential for growing bodies, and there are plenty of kid-friendly snack ideas!
9. Beef Jerky Crisps
If you’re looking for a healthy potato chip alternative, our Beef Jerky Crisps are the perfect option. Not only do they provide that chip-like crunch kids crave, but they also are packed with 40g of protein with zero sugar. Coming in a resealable bag, these are the perfect crispy and savory snack for your kid to take on the go.
Shop on People’s Choice Beef Jerky: Beef Jerky Crisps - $8.75
10. Turkey or Chicken Roll-Ups
This used to be one of my favorite school lunches when I was a kid. Wrap slices of lean deli meat around cheese sticks for a fun and tasty idea. It’s nutritious, delicious, and creative. Throw it inside a wrap for a more complete meal.
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11. String Cheese
Cheese is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. From a cheese quesadilla to feta cheese, you can definitely get creative with incorporating cheese into your kids diet. We personally love string cheese because of its health aspects, easy packaging, and delicious taste. Plus, they’re fun and every kid loves to pull them apart!
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12. Yogurt Cups
Dairy products like yogurt are a great sweet treat alternative because it’s packed with calcium, protein, vitamins and minerals, and will still satisfy cravings.
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13. Hard-Boiled Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and of course have 0g of carbohydrates as well. Just make sure to throw an ice pack into your kids lunches to make sure everything is still fresh by the time lunch comes around.
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Wholesome Grains: A Necessary Food Group
Whole grains are good for kids because they provide a steady source of energy and fiber with a wide range of essential nutrients and benefits that support growth, development, and overall health.
14. Whole Grain Crackers
Crackers are a great addition to any lunch box as a side to the main dish. Pair them with cheese or nut butter for a fun and tasty treat that’s also full of nutrients.
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15. Bagels
Spread cream cheese and jam on a bagel for a delicious sandwich. Bagels and cream cheese paired with a fruit and veggie make for the perfect well-balanced lunch.
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16. Mini Muffins
Mini muffins were always one of my favorite snacks growing up, so I can attest to them being kid approved. Grab some from your local bakery or make your own with whole wheat flour and add fruits or veggies for extra nutrition for this lunch.
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17. Granola Bars
Granola bars are a classic option that will keep your kid energized throughout the day. Easy to snack on at lunch, or even in between periods, these are a necessity to always have around. They’re packed with nutrients and always taste delicious.
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Fun and Treats: Keeping Healthy Kids
Kids deserve an especially tasty treat now and then. Here are some healthier options.
18. Trail Mix
Trail mix is great because it is so versatile. Create your own with a custom trail mix blend of nuts, dried fruits, and a touch of chocolate. This way you can personalize it to exactly what your kid loves. Or if you’re looking for something quick, you can also get store bought trail mix as well. Either way it'll provide your kid with an energy-boosting, tasty snack.
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19. Skinny Pop
We all know how much kids love popcorn. Not only is it tasty, but it’s made with no artificial ingredients, it’s gluten free, dairy free, has zero trans fat, and is an incredible source of fiber. Skinny Pop is the perfect crispy snack.
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20. Dark Chocolate
A small piece of dark chocolate is a satisfying sweet indulgence. You can even make some cookies and throw in mini dark chocolate chips if you want to get a bit more creative. Your kid will be ecstatic to find this tasty treat in their lunch bag.
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21. Rice Krispie Treats
Classic rice krispie treats aren’t necessarily the healthiest option, but there are healthy alternatives. Make them with brown rice cereal and less sugar for a sweet treat that satisfies health and cravings.
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Gluten-Free Snacks: Healthy Sides for all Meal Ideas
Providing gluten-free snacks for kids' lunch boxes is essential if your child has a gluten sensitivity. Here are some gluten-free snack ideas that are perfect for lunch boxes.
22. Homemade Gluten-Free Blueberry Muffins
One of our favorite homemade school lunch recipes are these gluten-free blueberry muffins. Bake these delicious gluten-free muffins with your choice of almond flour, coconut flour, or a gluten-free flour blend. Your kids will thank us later for this all-star lunch box snack.
Find our favorite recipe for Gluten-Free Blueberry Muffins on Little Spice Jar
23. Gluten-Free Pretzels
Gluten-free pretzels are available in most stores and can be paired with your child's favorite dip or spread. Because it's guaranteed almost all kids love pretzels and these fall on the healthier side, these are undoubtedly one of our favorite healthy lunch box ideas.
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24. Broccoli Cheddar Baby Quinoa Bites
Mini rice or quinoa cups mixed with vegetables, cheese, and spices are a great snack if you’re looking for something to cook. Our personal favorite recipe is broccoli cheddar baby quinoa bites. Not only are they quick, easy, and healthy, they are so delicious your kid is guaranteed to love them too.
Find our favorite recipe for Broccoli Cheddar Baby Quinoa Bites on Haute and Healthy Living
25. Sliced Deli Meat Roll-Ups
Sliced deli meat roll-ups are another of our favorite packed lunch ideas. Roll slices of gluten-free deli meat around cheese sticks for a delicious and fun protein-packed snack.
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26. Rice Pudding Cups
Homemade or store-bought, gluten-free rice pudding makes for a sweet and creamy treat.
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27. Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
Bake or purchase gluten-free cookies made with alternative flours like almond or coconut flour. Although store bought is always easier, everyone knows nothing compares to classic homemade cookies. Plus, your kid will appreciate the extra love in their lunch.
Find our favorite recipe for Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies on My Gluten-Free Kitchen
Bottom Line
When it comes to the best kids' lunch box snacks, variety is key. To keep lunchtime exciting, make sure to rotate snacks in and out.
A great way to do this is by getting a One-Of-Everything Beef Jerky Box which includes 12 different delicious and healthy beef jerky options to choose from. Remember, the goal is to offer a balance of nutrients while making lunchtime an enjoyable and wholesome experience. With these snack ideas, you can nurture your child's growing body and cultivate healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime.
Happy snacking!
