September is Whole Grains Month and what better way to celebrate than by packing healthy, whole grain foods in your child’s lunch box?
- Popcorn – it’s a 100% whole grain snack you can easily make at home. Avoid the pre-packaged, flavored varieties.
- PBJ – it’s an old standby. But make this one with whole wheat bread. Got a picky eater? Try whole white wheat with all the nutrition of other whole wheat varieties, but a lighter color and milder taste.
- Oatmeal Cookies – simply adding oatmeal to your favorite cookie recipe turns them into a delicious whole grain treat.
- Whole Grain Pretzels – skip the chips and go for a healthier crunch.
- Whole Grain Pita Pockets – they’re fun and easy to hold and you can fill them with just about anything (cream cheese, tuna, veggies or even PBJ).
- Granola Bars – look for whole grain oats as the first ingredient and choose brands lower in sugar.
- Whole Grain Bagels – who said they’re just for breakfast? Load them with cream cheese or peanut butter or a little mayo and their favorite deli meat and now it’s lunch.
- Whole Grain Muffins – muffins make a great snack and as long you swap out half the white flour for whole wheat or bran, you’ve got an extra healthy one. You may need more baking powder, so experiment.
- Trail Mix – combine nuts, dried fruit and their favorite whole grain cereal and you’ve got a super fun snack. Want to make it more fun? Throw in a few colorful M&M’s!
- Whole Wheat Tortillas – use them to make “pinwheels.” Fill them with cream cheese, or hummus, cheese and grated carrots. Try egg salad or peanut butter and banana slices.