by Ellen Page

Created on: January 16, 2011   Last Updated: February 01, 2012

The cost of food is ever increasing, making more parents and caregivers wanting to be more frugal. It is important to pack a healthful and nutritious lunch that will provide energy for the day. Packing a lunch is already cost effective; however, there can still be ways to cut back.

 Here are some tips for frugal school lunches:

• Keep it fresh

Select the correct lunch bag or box that is favorable, as this can encourage the child to eat the food within. Invest in some reusable containers and utensils, and a reusable sports bottle or a thermos flask. Another essential item for a lunch bag is an ice pack, as these keep food chilled and fresh. Alternatively, freeze a bottle of water and take it out of the freezer in plenty of time so that it can thaw before lunchtime, this way everything stays cool at no extra cost. In summer put a bottle of drink in the freezer, and in the winter put it in the refrigerator the night before, place it in the centre of the lunch box to keep everything cold and fresh.

• Pack the right food

Pack what they like, as sending food that they won’t eat is just wasteful. However, keep it healthy, and try to encourage good habits. It does no harm to have a few favorites, providing there is a good balance of foods. By packing tasty food that is preferable, it is more likely to be eaten. Get them involved with selecting the foods, and preparing the lunch the night before. Give them options of foods they can have, and guide them to healthier alternatives, with the prerequisite of packing a fruit or veggie. This way they get to eat what they like, and they still get a healthy item to eat, too.

• Buy fresh

Avoid buying processed ready-made individually served packed foods, as these are generally more costly, as you are paying for the convenience. These are geared towards children with their fun packaging, however, they are unhealthier than their non-processed alternatives and the portions are generally small. Fresh food is not only more healthful, it is also cost effective. It may take more time to prepare, however, get the children involved with preparing lunch the night before, and they will enjoy it more the following day, as they had a helping hand in preparing it. This makes everyone happy, and saves money.

• Wise buys

Involve children with the food shop. Teach and guide them to healthy foods and food that costs less, in time they will know which foods are better for them and the environment.

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