The debate over Lunchly versus Lunchables has gained significant traction, especially with the rise of influencer-backed brands challenging established names. When considering these convenient, prepackaged lunch kits, it's crucial to look beyond the marketing and examine what's actually inside.
The Influencer-Led Challenger: Lunchly
Launched by internet personalities MrBeast, KSI, and Logan Paul in September 2024, Lunchly was marketed as a healthier alternative to Lunchables, featuring other influencer-driven products like Prime Hydration and Feastables chocolate bars. The lineup includes themed kits like “The Pizza” and “Turkey Stack ‘Ems,” each containing the main course, a Prime drink, and a Feastables chocolate bar.
While Lunchly’s marketing emphasized lower sugar and calories compared to some Lunchables variations, independent analyses reveal the full picture. For example, the Prime Hydration drink substitutes sugar for artificial sweeteners, which health experts caution may not be an improvement for children's diets. Furthermore, Consumer Reports found detectable levels of heavy metals like lead and cadmium in Lunchly kits, similar to amounts found in previous tests of Lunchables. The overall nutritional profile, including sodium and saturated fat, is comparable between the two brands.
The Classic Contender: Lunchables
Lunchables, a Kraft Heinz brand with decades of history, is the classic prepackaged lunch kit that inspired the competition. Its kits are a familiar sight, offering combinations like pizza, cracker stackers, and nachos, often paired with a Capri Sun drink and a candy like Reese's.
However, Lunchables is not without its critics. Concerns have long been raised about its high sodium content, saturated fat, and the processed nature of its ingredients. Many kits include 'pasteurized prepared cheese product' rather than real cheese and contain significant amounts of sugar, especially when a dessert is included. While it may deliver on convenience and nostalgia, its reputation as a non-nutritious choice is widely accepted.
Direct Comparison: A Look at the Details
| Feature | Lunchly | Lunchables |
|---|---|---|
| Sponsorship | Promoted by social media influencers (MrBeast, KSI, Logan Paul). | Established Kraft Heinz brand with traditional advertising. |
| Included Drink | Prime Hydration (sweetened with artificial sweeteners). | Capri Sun (containing sugar) or other options. |
| Included Dessert | Feastables Milk Crunch or Milk Chocolate bar. | Reese's Peanut Butter Cup or other candy. |
| Nutritional Claims | Marketed as healthier, with less sugar and calories; uses influencer marketing. | Not heavily marketed on health benefits; sells on taste and nostalgia. |
| Independent Findings | Found comparable levels of heavy metals and high sodium to Lunchables; artificial sweeteners raise health concerns. | Long-standing concerns over high sodium, sugar, and processed ingredients; also found to contain heavy metals. |
| Flavor/Taste | Varies by review; some criticize the cheese consistency and Prime drink taste. | Flavor profile is well-known, with strong nostalgia appeal. |
| Price Point | Often slightly higher due to included branded extras. | Generally more affordable and widely available. |
Are There Better Options?
For those seeking a truly healthy, convenient alternative, the best approach is often to DIY your own snack kit. This allows for total control over ingredients and nutrition while still capturing the fun, compartmentalized experience kids love.
Here are some quick-prep, healthier alternatives for DIY lunch kits:
- Mini Pita Pizzas: Whole-wheat pita bread rounds, marinara sauce, low-sodium pepperoni, and real mozzarella cheese cubes.
- Chicken & Hummus Dippers: Leftover grilled chicken slices, whole-grain crackers, hummus, and a side of sliced cucumbers and carrots.
- Energy Bites Box: Protein balls, whole-grain pretzels, sliced apple, and cheese cubes.
- Yogurt Parfait Kit: Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and a small container of granola.
- Tortilla Roll-Ups: Whole-wheat tortilla rolled with low-sodium deli turkey or chicken, and a slice of cheddar cheese.
Conclusion: The Real Winner
Ultimately, deciding what's better, Lunchly or Lunchables, depends on your priorities. If you are swayed by modern influencer marketing and prefer artificial sweeteners, Lunchly might appeal to you. If you favor the nostalgic, classic taste and more affordable price point, Lunchables is the clear choice. However, from a nutritional and health perspective, neither brand is a superior option. Both are highly processed, high-sodium products with similar health-related concerns, despite Lunchly's marketing claims. Health experts recommend viewing both brands as occasional treats rather than regular meals. For a truly better-for-you alternative, assembling your own lunch kit is the most nutritionally sound choice. See more on DIY lunch kit ideas at Consumer Reports.
