A recent study by Consumer Reports found that Lunchables, prepackaged boxes of deli meat, cheese, and crackers, contain troubling levels of lead and sodium, making them a less than ideal choice when it comes to snacks or lunches for children. While none of the tested products exceeded legal limits, five out of the 12 tested products contained 50% or more of California’s maximum allowable amount of lead or cadmium, heavy metals that can cause developmental issues in kids. For example, a Turkey and Cheddar Cracker Stackers Lunchable had 74% of California’s allowed level for lead and 49% of the recommended daily sodium intake for 4- to 8-year-olds.
Consumer Reports chemist Eric Boring, who led the testing, pointed out that while Lunchables provide only about 15% of the daily calories an average 8-year-old needs, the small amount of food still puts them close to the daily maximum limit for lead. This means that if a child consumes more than half of the daily limit for lead from the Lunchable alone, there is little room for potential exposure from other sources like water or the environment. Consequently, CR recommended that nobody should regularly eat these products and they should not be considered a healthy school lunch option.
In response to the study, a spokesperson for Kraft Heinz, the manufacturer of Lunchables, defended the brand by highlighting its nutrient content and recent efforts to improve the product’s nutritional profile. They mentioned that Lunchables products are a good source of protein, providing nutrients through meats and cheeses. Kraft Heinz has also introduced healthier options like Lunchables with Fresh Fruit in collaboration with Fresh Del Monte and reduced the sodium content in all Lunchables crackers by 26%. The spokesperson argued that processed foods, including Lunchables, should not be classified as less nutritious solely based on the level of processing but rather on a comprehensive assessment of the product’s nutritional value.
Consumer Reports also expressed concerns about the overall health implications of regularly consuming processed meat, a main ingredient in many Lunchable products, as it has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers. Their dietitian Amy Keating cautioned against relying on highly processed foods like Lunchables as a staple in children’s diets. The study underscores the importance of making informed decisions about the foods we choose to consume, especially when it comes to children’s meals and snacks. Parents and caretakers should prioritize wholesome, minimally processed options to promote optimal health and well-being in kids.
