See what snacks registered dietician Sammi Haber Brondo thinks pass the lunch box test

Nutrition NY founder and registered dietician Sammi Haber Brondo wants to help parents keep their children healthy.  Based in New York City, Brondo has partnered with Natures Bakery to help raise awareness around creating healthy snack habits to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into our diets.

The solution is to find lunchbox snacks that are made with real ingredients, healthy, and most importantly, that kids will actually eat. With all the options out there, how do you know what lunch box snacks pass the test?   Check out the interview below to see Sammi’s answers!

PH: What is the main thing you think kids are missing in their nutrition?

SHB: Each child is different, but I think a nutrient that often gets left out is fat. And dietary fat is so important for growing kids! You can add more to kids’ diet with foods like nut or seed butter, avocado, and olive oil.

PH: Most parents feel that in order for their children to have a healthy and well-balanced lunch that they should incorporate raw vegetables of some sort. What are some snacks that are healthy for parents but also tasty for kids?

SHB: I don’t think parents need to add raw vegetables in order to make a well-balanced lunch! Try roasted vegetables with different dips, like hummus or edamame dip. You can also try snack bars like Nature’s Bakery Baked-Ins – they’re organic and made with real fruit and veggies and whole grains, but taste like delicious baked goods.

PH: What makes certain products a great alternative for parents that opt for applesauce in their kid’s lunchbox?

SHB: Instead of applesauce, parents can try other easy fruit, like sliced strawberries, kiwi, or even purèed pear to the same consistency. Pair these foods with things like pretzels, crackers, and/or nut or seed butter.

PH: I see your yummy recipes on Instagram! Most kids and teenagers struggle with getting up in the morning and getting ready on time, preparing a healthy snack can take time, what are some healthy ones they can just grab and go?

SHB: This is another time where a Nature’s Bakery bar would be great! They don’t melt or crumble, making them the perfect on-the-go snack. Other easy snacks include fruit that you can grab and eat, like bananas or apples, popcorn, or even string cheese. And as a bonus, all of these snacks are great options for adults, too.

PH: How did your partnership with Nature’s Bakery come about?

SHB: The Nature’s Bakery team reached out to me a few months ago and introduced me to their new Baked-Ins bars. I instantly fell in love. In fact, I often had to hide them around my kitchen so they wouldn’t get eaten before I needed them for the partnership! It was an easy decision to partner with them – not only did I love the taste of the bars, but I also loved how wholesome they are and that I can share them with my daughter.