A Head-to-Head Nutritional Comparison
When evaluating prepackaged lunch kits like Lunchly and Lunchables, it's crucial to look beyond the surface-level marketing and compare the actual nutritional content. Both brands offer similar convenience, but a deep dive into calories, sugars, sodium, and ingredients reveals they share more in common than their advertising suggests.
Calories: A Minor Difference
While Lunchly kits may contain slightly fewer calories than their Lunchables counterparts (approximately 30 to 90 calories less), nutritionists point out that this is a relatively insignificant difference for a growing child's overall daily needs. A larger concern is the source of these calories, which often comes from refined carbohydrates that the body processes quickly, potentially leaving a child hungry sooner rather than later.
Sugar: Trading One Problem for Another
Lunchly often boasts a lower total sugar count than Lunchables, a difference primarily attributed to its Prime Hydration drink, which uses artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium instead of sugar. However, health experts, including the World Health Organization, advise caution regarding sugar substitutes, noting they may not be an improvement over sugar and can be associated with other health concerns. For example, the Capri Sun in a Lunchables kit contains sugar, while Lunchly's drink contains artificial sweeteners, but both are ultimately highly processed components of the meal.
Sodium: High in Both Packages
One key nutritional aspect that Lunchly's marketing often overlooks is sodium. Testing has revealed that both brands contain alarmingly high levels of sodium, often providing between a third and nearly half of a young child's maximum daily recommended intake. Consistent high-sodium diets are linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure, even in childhood.
The Problem with Processed Ingredients
Beyond basic nutritional labels, the nature of the ingredients in these kits is a major concern. Both Lunchly and Lunchables fall into the category of ultra-processed foods, characterized by a high number of additives, refined grains, and processed meats.
Processed Meats: The deli turkey or pepperoni found in many kits is considered a processed meat. Studies have linked regular consumption of processed meats, even in small amounts, to an increased risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular disease.
Artificial Additives: The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has identified concerning food additives in Lunchables, such as sodium nitrite, a preservative linked to cancer, and TBHQ, a petroleum-based chemical. Similarly, Lunchly relies on artificial ingredients and preservatives.
Plastics and Heavy Metals: Investigations have also found other potential health concerns. Consumer Reports testing found detectable levels of lead and cadmium in both Lunchly and Lunchables kits. Additionally, phthalates, endocrine-disrupting chemicals that can leach from plastic packaging, were found in Lunchly kits. While levels were below regulatory limits, experts advise minimizing exposure.
Comparison Table: Lunchly vs. Lunchables (Turkey Stackers/Cracker Combos)
| Feature | Lunchly (Turkey Stack 'Ems) | Lunchables (Turkey & Cheddar) | Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~230 calories | ~310 calories | Lunchly has fewer calories, but the difference is not nutritionally significant for a balanced meal. |
| Total Sugars | 7g | 21g | Lunchly is lower due to Prime's artificial sweeteners, but these substitutes have their own potential health concerns. |
| Sodium | ~480mg | ~570mg | Both are high in sodium, contributing a significant portion of a child's daily limit. |
| Processed Meats | Oven Roasted Turkey (contains various additives) | Oscar Mayer Lean Turkey (cured, smoke flavor added) | Both contain highly processed meat, linked to potential long-term health risks. |
| Included Drink | Prime Hydration Drink | Capri Sun Juice Pouch | Prime uses artificial sweeteners; Capri Sun uses sugar, both are heavily processed beverages. |
| Included Treat | Feastables Milk Chocolate Bar | Reese's Peanut Butter Cup | Both include a sugary, processed candy treat. |
| Heavy Metals | Detected levels of lead and cadmium in testing | Detected levels of lead and cadmium in testing | Both have shown similar concerns regarding heavy metal content in independent lab tests. |
Making a Truly Healthier Choice
Given that neither Lunchly nor Lunchables constitutes a truly healthy meal, the best alternative remains a homemade lunch. A DIY approach allows for complete control over ingredients, providing more whole foods, fewer additives, and significantly less sodium and sugar. Parents can replicate the fun, interactive format of these kits by using compartmentalized bento boxes filled with fresh and nutritious items.
- Healthier "Stackers": Instead of processed deli meat and cheese product, use nitrate-free deli meat or cooked chicken breast, and real cheese slices with whole-grain crackers.
- Veggie Dippers: Fill compartments with fresh-cut carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, with a side of hummus or guacamole for dipping.
- Fresh Fruit: Replace sugary juice pouches and candy with fresh berries, sliced apples, or grapes.
Conclusion: Looking Beyond the Marketing
The perception that Lunchly is a healthier alternative to Lunchables is largely a marketing narrative fueled by its influencer-backed brand. However, a closer examination of the facts reveals that both products are highly processed, high in sodium, and contain potentially concerning levels of additives and contaminants. For parents, neither product is ideal for daily consumption, and the most nutritious option is still the lunch packed at home. By understanding the marketing tactics and scrutinizing the nutritional content, consumers can make more informed decisions that prioritize their children's well-being over convenience and brand loyalty.
