New school year, new school lunches

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Every kid looks forward to lunchtime in school to refuel their bodies with their favorite snacks.

Lunchtime is an important opportunity to socialize and take a break from class, but most importantly, it's a time to eat healthily.

A healthy lunch for school offers numerous benefits, including essential nutrients, vitamins and support for overall growth and development.

Dietician Jessica Smith has healthy alternatives for popular fan favorites.

Instead of your Lays potato chips, Jackson's veggie straws are a healthier option made with real vegetables and are non-GMO.

Go-Gurt is always fun, but the healthy option is an Activia probiotic yogurt, which will provide good healthy nutrients and promote good gut health.

It is always important to have a balanced and healthy school lunch.

A good guideline for school lunches is the U.S. Department of Agriculture's MyPlate.