12 Essential Lunch Box Fruits

Fruit is the one thing that always goes into my kids’ lunchboxes. It’s colorful, easy, and something they’ll almost always eat, especially when they’re hungry at school. Over the years I’ve figured out a few tricks for packing fruit that actually comes home eaten instead of squished at the bottom of the bag. Here are my favorite fruits for lunchboxes, plus my go-to tips for serving them.

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Tips for Lunchbox Fruits

• Try a variety of seasonal fruits as they taste better and are more affordable
• Cutting fruits in a variety of shapes can make them even more appealing, especially for kids who tend to avoid them. Thing balls, squares, unique shapes and more. Try this melon baller set, for example! 
• Most juices are high in sugar and fill kids up fast. Offering fresh fruit like apples, oranges, and grapefruit instead of juice is a great swap.
• To prevent choking, chop fruit into smaller bite size pieces which are good for fine motor skills and easier to chew. 
• Here are my suggested serving sizes for different age groups (1 serving = 1/2 cup chopped fruit)
  • Age 2-6 = generally 2 servings
  • Older than 6 = generally 3 servings
  • Active kids = generally 4 servings
• These are national guidelines at a minimum. Fruits are the types of natural sweets you want your kids eating, so offer fresh fruits at every meal. 

12 Fruits Perfect for Lunchboxes

Strawberries and Blueberries – Two lunchbox classics that need no prep beyond a rinse. Halve the strawberries for little ones.

Grapes and Figs – Slice grapes lengthwise for younger kids to prevent choking. Fresh figs are a fun, less-expected treat when they’re in season.

Cherries and Peaches – Pit and halve for easy eating. Both are at their best in summer.

Cantaloupe and Raspberries – Cube the cantaloupe and pair with a handful of raspberries for a pretty color combo.

Blackberries and Kiwi – Peel and slice kiwi into coins. Both are soft and easy for little hands.

Banana and Melon – Bananas are the ultimate grab-and-go; melon cubes travel well in a container.

What’s your go-to lunch box fruit? Let me know in the comments below!