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These are the most popular items you’ll find packed in Irish school lunches
Published 15:45 30 Aug 2023 BST
Updated 16:00 30 Aug 2023 BST
Add us as a preferred source on Google »The humble hang sangwich reigns supreme.
As kids and teachers ease themselves into a return to the classroom, new research has revealed exactly what parents are packing when it comes to school lunches. A study conducted by Healthy Heroes School Programme in association with the Irish Bread Bakers Association (IBBA) has revealed that a sandwich is still top of the list when it comes to lunchbox fillers. The research found that 42% of parents who have children in primary or secondary school supply them with a sandwich in their lunchboxes. When it comes to sandwich fillings, the classic ham and cheese remains Ireland's favourite combo while a corned beef sandwich is not far behind. Dr Mary McCreery, a leading Irish consultant nutritionist and dietician behind Healthy Heroes, has shared some tips to help parents when packing their children's lunches.
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Mary's tips are as follows:
- Set a good example by eating healthy foods yourself and make your own lunch at the same time so your child knows how much you enjoy them.
- Introduce new foods without any special comment so your child can make their own mind up if they like them or not.
- Make sure healthy foods are available. Try to offer different foods every day. Shopping in advance is the best way to ensure you have plenty of variety for lunch boxes.
- Include a carbohydrate, a protein, dairy, fruit and veg.
- Educate your child that school means healthy eating and treats are for weekends and special occasions.
- Involve your child in the food shopping to encourage them (with the right guidance!) to pick healthy options for their school lunch.
