Research conducted independently by packaging company Tetra Pak has shown that many parents struggle to provide their primary school-aged children with a healthy packed lunch.

The survey of than 1,000 parents found that over a third feel guilty for not providing a healthy enough school lunchbox, saying they often choose convenience over health when purchasing food and drink items. More than half of those surveyed thought there should be more guidance around providing healthy food and drink in lunchboxes, with 52% of those surveyed claiming they find the information available confusing and full of mixed messages.

 

The research suggested that providing nutritional information on packaging is key to helping parents make the right food choices, with half of parents claiming to regularly check the nutritional content. However, with nearly one in ten parents saying they struggle to understand information currently available, it seems vital that the information available is made clearer.

 

Nutritionist Kryi Shiamtanis, who worked with Tetra Pak as part of the project, said "A healthy diet is made up of a balance of food groups, and a variety of foods from these different groups. Can be difficult for parents to achieve, as nearly a third of parents (31%) state that finding variety is the most challenging aspect of providing a packed lunch."

 

The survey also showed that 28% of parents find it difficult to find healthy food and drink that their children will enjoy. Stefan Fageräng, managing director of Tetra Pak North-West Europe, said "Our research highlighted the significant role that children themselves play in deciding the contents of their packed lunch. This means that any action to improve healthy eating needs to start with a focus on educating children and engaging them in choosing the right food and drink."