Consumer Reports is requesting the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) remove Lunchables from the National School Lunch Program, which serves nearly 30 million students. The organization said that its testing shows the products are unhealthy for both adults and children.
“Lunchables are not a healthy option for kids and should not be included on the menu as part of the National School Lunch Program,” Brian Ronholm, director of food policy at Consumer Reports, said.
The nonprofit organization conducted tests on Lunchables kits provided to children through the National School Lunch Program and those purchased in stores. Results revealed that all of the kits had “relatively high levels” of lead and cadmium. Additionally, all but one kit showed the presence of a chemical found in plastic, reportedly linked to reproductive issues, diabetes and certain cancers.
While none of the Lunchables exceeded federal limits, lead and cadmium can cause developmental problems in children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The sodium levels in the tested Lunchables exceeded nearly a quarter of a child’s recommended daily intake, with even higher amounts found in the school lunch program’s versions.
The highest sodium levels were detected in the Turkey and Cheddar Cracker Stackers Lunchables. Medical experts warn that eating foods high in sodium can lead to health issues such as high blood pressure, which can lead to heart disease, stroke and kidney damage.
Currently, the USDA permits two Lunchables kits — Turkey and Cheddar Cracker Stackers and Extra Cheesy Pizza — under the program. To meet program requirements, Kraft, the producer of Lunchables, has reportedly increased whole grains in crackers and protein in the kits.
Consumer Reports is circulating a petition demanding the USDA eliminate Lunchables from the school lunch program and replace them with healthier options, garnering nearly 15,000 signatures as of April 10.
The USDA stated that it has rules in place to address the overall content of meals, requiring Lunchables to be paired with fruits, vegetables and milk.
Kraft maintains that it has “taken great steps to improve the nutrition profile of Lunchables,” including reducing sodium by 26%.
