8 Healthy Snack Ideas Kids Can Take Into Schools | The Tuck Company

Packing school lunches can be a daily challenge, especially when you’re trying to balance health, taste, and school-safe ingredients. Many schools now have strict no-nut policies, and with growing awareness around ultra-processed foods (UPFs), parents are on the lookout for nutritious, natural options that are still fun to eat. If you're looking to upgrade your snack game, here are eight healthy, lunchbox-friendly snacks your kids will actually enjoy — and schools will approve of.

1. The Tuck Company Oat Bars

These oat bars are a lunchbox hero. Made with natural ingredients, The Tuck Company oat bars are free from ultra-processed foods, nut-free, and designed with common allergen awareness in mind. That makes them school-safe and ideal for sharing classroom spaces. They're naturally sweetened, high in fibre, and come in kid-friendly flavours that don’t compromise on nutrition. Whether your child has allergies or you’re just looking for a wholesome snack, The Tuck Company delivers peace of mind — and great taste.

2. Sliced Veggies with Hummus

Crunchy carrot sticks, cucumber rounds, and peppers are fun to dip and packed with vitamins. Pair them with a small pot of nut-free hummus or a dairy-free dip for a fibre-rich, protein-packed snack. You can even find individual pre-packed hummus servings for easy lunchbox additions.

3. Wholegrain Crackers and Cheese Cubes

Go for wholegrain or seed-based crackers with no added sugar, paired with mild cheese cubes or slices. This combo gives a good balance of carbs, protein, and fats, keeping kids fuller for longer. For dairy-free kids, swap cheese with a calcium-fortified plant-based option.

4. Fruit Kebabs

Fruit always gets eaten faster when it looks fun. Skewer chunks of melon, grapes, strawberries, and kiwi onto child-safe sticks for a colourful and sweet midday treat. You can even sneak in a marshmallow or two for a fun surprise without the sugar overload.

5. Homemade Popcorn

Air-popped popcorn (lightly salted or seasoned with cinnamon) is a wholegrain snack that’s both crunchy and satisfying. It’s a great alternative to crisps and can be made in big batches ahead of the school week.

6. Mini Wholemeal Muffins

Bake a batch of mini muffins using wholemeal flour, mashed banana, or apple as a natural sweetener. Add in shredded courgette or carrot for an extra veggie boost. Choose egg-free or dairy-free alternatives for allergen-friendly versions.

7. Greek Yogurt Pouches

If your school allows dairy, plain Greek yogurt pouches are a low-sugar, high-protein option. Add a little swirl of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon at home if your child prefers sweeter flavours. For dairy-free alternatives, go for coconut or oat-based yogurts with live cultures.

8. Rice Cakes with Sunflower Seed Butter

Light and crunchy, plain rice cakes topped with sunflower seed butter (a nut-free alternative) and sliced banana or a sprinkle of chia seeds make for a simple, energy-boosting snack. Pack the topping separately if needed to avoid soggy rice cakes.

Final Thoughts

Healthy doesn’t have to mean boring. With a little planning and a few trusted brands like The Tuck Company, you can keep your child’s snacks nutritious, allergen-friendly, and something they’ll look forward to eating. Whether you’re managing food sensitivities, following school guidelines, or just trying to cut back on processed foods, these snack ideas are tasty steps in the right direction.

Take a peak at our UPF-free and allergen-free snack bars.