Healthy Bento Box Lunches
Contributed by: Andrea Coffin, Maine SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educator
The bento box is a simple tool to create balanced, nutritious meals that kids will want to eat. Originating in Japan, bento boxes are containers that have built-in, small compartments that make it easy to pack attractive meals on the go. Each section can be used to include all of the food groups in a child’s lunch box.
There are many ready-made bento boxes available to purchase at a variety of prices. You can also make a DIY bento box out of things you already have at home. Plastic takeout containers and old lunch boxes can be fitted with silicone muffin liners, paper cupcake liners, smaller jars, and reused yogurt cups to create compartments.
Once you have your compartments, fill each section with different food groups, aiming to “eat the rainbow” which is an easy guide to ensure meals are nutritious. Colorful presentations are also visually appealing and may encourage kids to try new foods. Additionally, bento-box lunches are a great way to use leftovers and can be packed the night before.
Below are ideas of foods to put in a bento box lunch:
Fruit: Apple slices, citrus wedges, grapes, and berries.
Vegetables: Carrot sticks, cucumber slices, snap peas, and even salad in the larger compartments.
Protein: Chicken tenders, hard-boiled eggs, hummus, and beans
Grains: Brown rice, whole wheat crackers, and pasta
Dairy: Cheese cubes, yogurt, and cottage cheese
Combinations: Quesadillas, pasta with meatballs, sandwiches, and wraps
About Maine SNAP-Ed
The Maine SNAP-Ed program supports healthier communities by helping people learn to shop for and prepare nutritious meals on a limited budget. Maine SNAP-Ed is part of a national USDA initiative that aims to improve food security, increase access to healthy foods, and encourage lifelong healthy eating habits. The program offers free, evidence-based nutrition education and cooking classes to eligible Mainers in community settings like schools, food pantries, and housing communities.
Whether it’s trying a new vegetable, experimenting with a different fruit and veggie combos, or learning a new skill like using a vegetable peeler, SNAP-Ed helps make healthy eating fun, approachable, and achievable!
Maine SNAP-Ed works toward these key goals:
Improving access to nutritious food, especially fruits and vegetables, by partnering with local producers and community programs like FarmDrop.
Helping people develop lifelong healthy eating habits, with an emphasis on simple, affordable meals that are easy to prepare.
Reducing the risk of chronic disease through nutrition education and lifestyle support.
These goals align with the federal SNAP-Ed mission to empower individuals and families to make healthier food and lifestyle choices, ultimately contributing to stronger, healthier communities.
By highlighting local ingredients and encouraging creativity in the kitchen, programs like these support both individual health and community wellbeing. Whether you’re a beginner cook or looking for fresh inspiration, SNAP-Ed is here to help you build confidence, learn new skills, and enjoy the benefits of healthy eating, one delicious bite at a time.
Healthy Acadia’s Maine SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educators offer year-round cooking and nutrition classes in partnership with schools and organizations throughout Hancock and Washington counties. To learn more or schedule a class, contact Shannon (shannon.cherry@healthyacadia.org) or Andrea (andrea.coffin@healthyacadia.org) in Washington County, or Amy (amy.russell@healthyacadia.org) or Christine (christine.dentremont@healthyacadia.org) in Hancock County.