Back-to-School Food Shortcuts for Kids (and Grown-Ups)

Get back into the swing of school days with these short-cut snacks, lunch, and even dinner ideas.

August 11, 2023

By: Cameron Curtis

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Photo By: ozgurcankaya

Happy Snacking

With the back-to-school season in full gear, saving time and energy is essential. Every parent will appreciate having these must-have foods on hand for their child — and maybe even themselves! Here are our favorite shortcuts for snacks and school lunches.

Sweet Nothings Squeezable Smoothie

From Strawberry Beet to Mango Carrot, there is a fruit and veggie combo that will please any kid’s palate. There’s no added sugar (just dates!) plus chia seeds for fiber and protein means these are a sweet treat that packs a nutritious punch. Pop it in a lunchbox in the morning and it’ll be the perfect consistency by the time school lunch rolls around.

BUY IT: Amazon, $5.40

Little Spoon Smoothies

There are 15 — yes, 15 — kinds of smoothies to choose from at Little Spoon (including no dairy options). Let your littles decide if they prefer Sunflower Butter and Jelly or banana Bread with Creamy Tahini. These creative takes on classic pouches will mean you might just try a few yourself.

BUY IT: Little Spoon, $2.82 Each

GoGo squeeZ BIG

These pouches are 33% bigger than your traditional GoGoSqueez, meaning bigger kids can fill their tummies with 1/2 cup of fruit no matter the time of day. It’s gluten, nut, and dairy free — plus, it is shelf-stable, making it a perfect option for hanging out in a locker all day.

BUY IT: Amazon, $9.79

Hippeas Chickpea Snacks

There are a ton of puffed snacks out there, but none that pack as much plant-based protein and fiber in as these cheezy-flavored bites. This vegan choice is almost a bit too addictive. Do your kiddos prefer their snack in chip form? Check out their Nacho Vibes tortilla chips instead.

BUY IT: Amazon, $21.03

Kar’s Nuts

This is not your grandma’s trail mix. From Caramel Sweet ‘n Salty to Yogurt Apple Nut, these 3 oz bags are perfect to keep in the car for an after-school snack on the road.

BUY IT: Amazon, $19.16

Scout Seafood Snacks

Canned seafood is all the rage right now and these seafood snacks are the perfect on-the-go solution to get in on the craze. Kids will get a kick out of the packaging of this version that features a can of Yellowfin Tuna in Oil plus a "topping" of Za’atar blend.

BUY IT: Scout, $14.99 (3 Pack)

Patagonia Provisions Wild Sockeye Salmon

This quick dinner solution (or a few lunchbox additions) is perfect over greens or rice. The filets are thick cut and firm (versus lox, which is cold-smoked, silky, and sliced ribbon thin). They’re on the pricier side, but these are great to have handy in the pantry since they’re completely shelf stable until opened.

BUY IT: Patagonia Provisions, $16.00

Early Bird Kiss My Oats

Some of our favorite granola is now available in a grab-and-go pouch. It’s a little salty and a little sweet, thanks to a perfect combo of maple syrup and extra-virgin olive oil. These 2 oz packs will keep you from eating a whole larger bag.

BUY IT: Early Bird Foods, $36.00 (12 Pack)

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: The Best Packaged Snacks for School, How to Simplify Your Kid’s Morning Routine for School, 6 Easy Store-Bought Snacks for Back to School

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