Have you ever read the label of your hotdog package? Chances are you’ll find what I can only refer to as a disclaimer—“meat byproducts.” What’s that? Who knows. It seems safe to conclude that if the ingredient is a mystery, it’s probably not good for you. What’s more, hotdogs are one of the leading causes of choking. Yet this is a “food” we regularly give our kids.

Also on the list of not-so-wholesome lunch regulars are commercially processed cold cuts. These sandwich mainstays are packed with additives that are decidedly not part of a healthy diet. Included are those prepackaged lunch meals, complete with crackers, disc-shaped meat slices, and a chocolate.

But wait, you say, quick meals that kids will eat are an absolute must. This goes without saying. Healthful and truly easy options are abundant. Tuna fish is a great source of vitamin D, which kids needs for healthy bones. Plus, it’s loaded with protein, also a must for children’s nutrition. Mix in some dried cranberries and sliced almonds to make tuna fish sandwiches even healthier. Don’t forget to use whole grain bread. Another easy kid-pleasing meal kids is chicken tenders with barbecue sauce. Buy the chicken pre-sliced and cook it in a Crockpot or on the stovetop with olive oil and a little water. Serve up with barbecue sauce and a side of veggies and/or fruit skewers. Cook some ground beef with a package of taco seasoning. Serve with soft or hard tacos, grated cheese, and sliced tomatoes. As for lunch meat, go to the deli counter. The less processed your meat, the better. Hummus and vegetables are a great snack for kids and adults. Slice apples and let the kids dip them in peanut butter.