Kids off to camp? Pack a safe lunch!

Bacteria love the warm weather so you don’t want it to befriend your kid while they’re at camp. Chances are your little campers won’t have access to a refrigerator to put their lunch in. So, while keeping meals simple and fast, you also want to make sure they are safe!
Harmful bacteria multiply in the “danger zone” – temperatures between 40 and 140 degrees. Therefore, it is important that you keep perishable food cold so it will stay safe. Keeping food safe starts at home –make sure you wash your hands before preparing your camper’s meal. You also want to make sure you remind your camper to wash their hands before they eat, too.

Keep everything clean! Wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils, and countertops with hot, soapy water before preparing the next item.

Don’t cross-contaminate, this one is a biggie. Use one cutting board for fresh produce and another cutting board for meat or poultry, this way you’re cutting down your chances of a food borne illness. Insulated, soft-sided lunch boxes are best for keeping food cold and be sure to include an ice pack with any perishable food. Not sure if the food needs refrigeration? Foods such as fruits and vegetables, canned fish, breads, peanut butter, jelly, mustard, and pickles are safe without a cold source.

Here are some easy, “camp-friendly,” healthy lunch ideas:

• Peanut butter-jelly and banana sandwich
• Turkey pita-wich with lettuce, tomato, and mustard
• Carrot sticks with low-fat ranch dressing, string cheese, and an apple
• Low-fat yogurt with fresh fruit and granola
• Whole wheat wrap with lean deli meats
• Ants on a log: celery sticks stuffed with peanut butter and raisins

Make it fun for your kids to open their lunch box. Write a little message, funny joke, or a quote. Kids love surprises!

For more tips, information and healthy recipes, visit the health and wellness section of ShopRite.com.