Healthy snacks for your kids

September 4, 2011 (CHICAGO) (WLS) -- As students head back to school, parents might be concerned about the snacks and lunches their children will eat.

How do you get children to eat right? Bianca Alexander with Conscious Living TV joined us in our ABC7 studio to explain how you can substitute some popular snacks with healthier options.

1. Beverages
Avoid products made with high-fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners and colors.
Look for beverages made with natural fruit juices.
For dairy, opt for USDA-certified organic milk and dairy products.

2. Snacks
Read labels for partially hydrogenated oil, Benzoate Preservatives: BHT, BHA, TBHQ, and High Fructose Corn Syrup.
Look for more natural snacks that are sugar-free and free of trans fats (or hydrogenated oil).

<op>3. For Kids With Allergies
Pick almond, soy or sunflower seed butter.
There are gluten-free breads and cereals.

4. Vegetarian/ Meat-Free Alternatives
Consider Tofurky lunch meats, Tofu and veggie dogs, and veggie burgers. </p.

5. Toxin-Free Lunch Containers
One great line of BPA-free lunch containers is made by "Go Uber Green" (www.GoUberGreen.com), a Chicago-based company. The containers can only be purchased online.

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