Agency advice on children's lunchboxes

Monday 17 August 2009

Following reports in the media today that ham sandwiches should not be included in children's lunchboxes, the Agency has offered clear advice to provide reassurance to parents.

While there is some evidence linking bowel cancer to red and processed meats, there is no evidence that the occasional ham sandwich will increase the risk.

Whether your child eats a school meal or takes a packed lunch, it is important to try to choose a variety of foods as part of a balanced diet and to watch out for foods high in fat, saturated fat, sugar and salt.

Processed meats, such as ham and salami, can form part of a balanced diet and parents shouldn’t be concerned about occasionally including these in their children’s lunchboxes. However, processed meats can contain high levels of fat, particularly saturated fat, and salt, so we wouldn’t recommend eating them too often. Parents should try to include a variety of sandwich fillings, including chicken and fish.

Meat is a good source of iron, zinc, B vitamins and protein, but, due to its high saturated fat content, it should be eaten in moderation.