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As the back-to-school season begins, a Kansas State University food safety expert is reminding parents that lunchbox safety is just as important as school supplies. Insulated lunch bags—whether soft-sided or hard plastic—play a key role in keeping kids healthy by maintaining proper food temperatures throughout the school day.

K-State food scientist Karen Blakeslee emphasizes the importance of keeping cold foods cold, hot foods hot, and preventing cross-contamination, especially for children with food allergies. Pairing lunchboxes with appropriately sized ice packs helps protect perishable items like meat, cheese, and yogurt. Parents should check school policies, as refrigeration may not be available, and consider how long food will remain unrefrigerated before lunch.

Planning meals that are both nutritious and easy to eat is essential. Involving children in selecting or packing their lunch increases the chance they’ll eat it, reducing waste. Prepackaged snacks or DIY meal kits with separated compartments offer convenience and savings.

Reusable containers should be easy to open, and including utensils, napkins, or wet wipes can help with cleanup. Preparing parts of the meal the night before saves time, but moisture-sensitive items should be added in the morning. Blakeslee also recommends having a backup lunchbox on hand and following basic food safety principles.