How bad, nutritionally, are pre-packed lunch meals with mini pizzas, tacos, etc.?
It’s no surprise that many of the pre-packed lunches are relatively high in fat and sodium compared to a turkey sandwich, for example. But it’s not necessarily any worse if the alternative would have been a high-fat lunchmeat sandwich or “junk” food. This is especially true for children and teens. Their calorie needs are so high, due to growth and physical activity, that there is room for some high-fat foods, as long as other meals and snacks are relatively lean. The biggest problem may be what goes with the lunch. Where are the vegetables and fruits so vital for good health? Rounding out a meal with extra sweets and sugar-laden fruit drinks containing little or no juice leaves a meal nutritionally lacking, whether it’s pre-packaged or one you’ve packed yourself. If you prefer pre-packaged meals, look for those with very little of the less nutritious fillers. Supplement them with your own fruits, raw vegetables, or both. On the other hand, packing a healthy lunch takes only a few minut
