Consumer Reports Wants Lunchables Removed From Schools

Consumer Reports has made a bold move, petitioning the USDA to yank Lunchables from school cafeterias due to high sodium levels. The watchdog group found that these school versions of the popular snack kit contain even more sodium than those found in grocery stores.

Their report revealed shocking levels of sodium in Lunchables, ranging from 460 to a staggering 930 milligrams per serving. This comes out to “nearly a quarter to half of a child’s daily recommended limit for sodium.”

But the issue doesn’t stop at sodium. Consumer Reports also discovered concerning levels of lead, cadmium, and phthalates in Lunchables and similar ready-to-eat meal kits. These heavy metals are known to cause kidney and bone disease, cancer, and developmental problems in children, according to the World Health Organization.

The presence of these harmful substances has prompted Consumer Reports to call for the removal of Lunchables from the National School Lunch Program. They argue that these kits, marketed directly to schools, pose serious health risks to children.

Kraft Heinz, the company behind Lunchables, introduced two new options specifically for schools last year. Despite claims of reformulation to meet federal guidelines, these school versions still contain alarming levels of sodium and other additives.

Moreover, the additives found in Lunchables raise concerns about ultraprocessing, which relies heavily on artificial ingredients to enhance flavor and prolong shelf life. Some of these additives, like TBHQ and sodium nitrate, have been linked to various health issues, including cancer and immune system suppression.

Consumer Reports’ findings shed light on the importance of scrutinizing the foods provided in school lunch programs. With millions of children relying on these meals daily, ensuring their safety and nutritional value is paramount.

As the debate over school food guidelines continues, it’s clear that Lunchables have found themselves at the center of a much-needed conversation about the quality of meals served to our children.