Kids’ lunchboxes are being packed with too many chips, biscuits, and processed snacks, according to new research.

The study, conducted by Deakin University, involved interviews with 682 primary school students to find out what they’re eating.

The findings indicated that children aged between eight and twelve years get about 47 per cent of their daily caloric intake from ultra-processed foods such as chips, biscuits, and sausage rolls. 

“They have additives like colours, emulsifiers, flavours, thickeners,” said Dr Carley Grimes from the Institute for Physical Activity & Nutrition.

“It’s setting children up for poor eating habits.”

The study has raised concerns about the long-term health impacts, given the correlation between high consumption of ultra-processed foods and increased Body Mass Index (BMI) in children as young as 10. 

“If it persists later into life – that sets them up for a range of chronic disease risk,” Grimes said.

Cost and convenience were identified as significant factors behind the glut of processed food. 

The study looked at what kids ate over a full 24 hours, so while what’s in the lunchbox is key on school days, experts say there’s plenty of scope to also pack extra good stuff into breakfast and dinner.

Making homemade options, freezer stashes, and buying in-season are other tips to help parents get the balance right.