Planning for a healthy and nutritious lunch for their school-kids, that also appeals to their taste buds, is a common perplexity every mother goes through.

5+ A Day, an organization set by World Health Organization (WHO) in order to encourage at least five portions of fruits and vegetables every day, observed the general habits of lunch-eating among school going children.

Brownwen Anderson, a spokesman from 5+ A Day, said that although, it may take a while for parents to decide on lunch, but it is not as difficult as it seems.

He said: “Small changes like using avocado instead of butter on sandwiches or putting in baby carrots, or a simple made-at-home pizza with a bread base loaded with vegetables such as tomato, onion and even a bit of fruit like pineapple chunks on top will provide the energy needed for active kids without adding unwanted fat and sugar calories”.

Nicola Fraher, a Dietician for Canterbury District Health Board echoed the same. She promoted the use of more veggies and less of high sugar foods.

She suggested the use of fruit breads and pastas for sandwiches and salads. To encourage the intake of raw vegetables and fruits, parents must go for something that looks visually appealing, like mini bananas, grapes, plums or even carrot or celery slices with dips.

She also advocated of inculcating appropriate fluid intake habits among children.