Health Tip: Pack Safe School Lunches

(HealthDay News) — As the kids head back to school, make sure you follow food-safety guidelines while packing their lunches.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics suggests how to keep school lunches safe and healthy:

Wash your child’s lunch box each day with warm, soapy water.
Even when in a rush, don’t take shortcuts. Wash your hands before preparing your child’s lunch, and make sure food-preparation areas are clean.
Pack perishable foods in an insulated container with an ice pack. Store perishables packed the night before in the refrigerator.
Pack shelf-stable lunchtime goodies such as trail mix, cut veggies, cereal, granola, fruit and whole grain crackers.
Wash all fruits and veggies, even those that need to be peeled.
Remind kids to wash hands before eating. Make sure they throw away or refrigerate any perishables left over from lunch.