{
  "id": 3212299,
  "title": "Back-to-school UAE lunchbox guide: What to pack, how much water kids need and what to avoid",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/25/back-to-school-uae-lunchbox-guide-what-to-pack-how-much-water-kids",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-25T06:54:23.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Gulf News",
    "slug": "gulf-news",
    "url": "https://gulfnews.com/lifestyle/back-to-school-uae-lunchbox-guide-what-to-pack-how-much-water-kids-need-and-what-to-avoid-1.500651404"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As the school year resumes, parents in the UAE must consider what to pack in their child's lunchbox. A well-balanced meal impacts a child's energy levels, focus, and overall performance throughout the day. Protein, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and hydration play crucial roles in creating a nutritious and sustaining lunch. High-sugar snacks and heavily processed foods should be avoided, as they provide quick energy but lack the steadiness required for a long day of lessons and activities.\n\nFamilies in the UAE must also be mindful of hydration, as the hot climate combined with long school days and physical activities can quickly lead to dehydration. Children need to consume water regularly, particularly during physical education and sports classes.\n\nWhen creating a healthy lunchbox, start with protein, which supports muscle growth and keeps kids full for longer. Include wholegrain carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats to provide a mix of vitamins, minerals, and energy. Opt for snacks like fresh fruit, plain yoghurt, cheese, hummus, and wholegrain crackers. Be cautious of pre-packaged snacks that may contain added sugars or excessive processing.\n\nFor picky eaters, gradually introduce new foods alongside familiar favorites, presenting them in bite-sized portions and appealing colors. Encourage water intake throughout the day, and keep a water bottle accessible, especially during physical activities. By focusing on a well-rounded, nutritious lunchbox, parents can ensure their children's lunches set them up for success in their academic and extracurricular pursuits.",
  "summary": "Every child will tell you that the best part of the day, is lunch time. So, how do you make it worth it? A box filled with chocolates, goodies and sweeties? Or...maybe a little health thrown in? As the school year kicks back into gear, the lunchbox returns to its place at the center of a child's daily routine. But what goes inside it does more than fill a stomach, it determines how a child feels,…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}