LETTER

School lunches 

Did you know it is currently estimated that 6% of children are affected by food allergies? It’s back to school time again and we know that this period can generate a certain excitement for kids and parents alike. While there are food safety tips that you should follow to avoid food poisoning, it’s also important to remember allergy awareness when you are packing lunches.

Keep it cool! It is important to keep cold food cold and hot food hot, so that your food never reaches the temperature danger zone where bacteria can grow quickly and cause food poisoning.

To keep food cold, place an ice pack in the lunch bag. You can also freeze an orange, small bottled water or yogurt snack and pack it in the lunch bag or box. Not only will this help keep the lunch cold, but by lunchtime the frozen treat will have melted, giving your child a cold, refreshing water or snack to enjoy with their lunch.

If you plan on including fruits and vegetables, wash them thoroughly under fresh, cool, running water, even if they will be peeled.

Do you lack inspiration for preparing lunches or healthy snacks? Visit the recipes page of Canada’s Food Guide. New healthy and delicious recipes are added regularly!

Regional Director, 

Santé Canada

Montréal