Lunchables and Del Monte partner on a new balanced eating school lunch option

As families prepare for the beginning of the school year, the battle over what to put in the lunchbox begins. Having a balanced eating school lunch option is vital to make both kids and parents happy. Lunchables and Del Monte have found the solution.

Lunchables with Fresh Fruit is the simple, easy choice that puts more fruit on the table. The classic crackers, lunchmeat and cheese is still part of the conversation. With these options, the cookie or other sweet treat is replaced with fresh fruit.

Given that there has been a 500% increase in Lunchables with fruits and vegetables in the past year, the product launch fills that void. Although there might be adult versions of this food combination, this idea is directed towards a younger audience.

According to Naor Danieli, Director of Marketing, Lunchables, “At Kraft Heinz, we are transforming through innovation by making bigger bets to fuel growth and create new products for our fans. Lunchables with Fresh Fruit is a ripe example of how we are quickly moving to introduce new offerings rooted in real consumer needs. Teaming up with Fresh Del Monte helps accelerate the innovation our brand strives for, lending its expertise in fresh produce to expand the delicious, buildable and real food experience we provide for kids.”

In addition, Melissa Mackay, Vice President, Marketing of Fresh Del Monte said, “By bringing together the freshness and quality that Fresh Del Monte fruits are known for with the convenience and fun of Lunchables, we have a real opportunity to change kids’ perspectives around fruits, ideally helping to make fruit consumption second nature to younger generations. It aligns closely with our mission to inspire healthy lifestyles and provide wholesome and convenient products to everyone.”

Lunchables has been changing its approach to balanced eating choices. From the school lunch to the quick snack, families want the convenience yet appreciate that it cannot be empty food choices. By adding fruit to the mix, it accomplishes that concept.

More importantly, these Lunchables might target balanced eating school lunches, since they can be an entire family choice. Although the girl dinner trend might need to fade into a memory, many parents might appreciate a food option that appeals to everyone on the grocery shopping list.

The new Lunchables with Fresh Fruit come in the following options:

• Ham and Cheddar Cracker Stackers with Fresh Apples
• Ham and Cheddar Cracker Stackers with Fresh Pineapple
• Turkey and Cheddar Cracker Stackers with Fresh Grapes
• Turkey and Cheddar Cracker Stackers with Fresh Clementines

While apple and grapes are common, the addition of the pineapple is a nice choice. Sometimes it is good to push kids a little with their fruit choices. It might not mean that the tropical fruit belongs on pizza, but it is good to have some variety on the plate.

According to Kraft Heinz, the new food offerings will be available in South-Central region of the U.S. at various retailers. Check with local stores for availability.