Whether it’s for the office or for the kids at school, packing lunches is a great way to ensure you can have healthy meals made with fresh ingredients while saving a few dollars. But it's also important to remember the rules of food safety when packing lunches to avoid getting a lunch box “bug”. Always remember to wash your hands before, during, and after preparation, and of course teach your kids to wash their hands as well before digging into their lunches. Be sure the food preparation area is clean and dry beforehand to prevent any germs from spreading to the food. It's also a good idea to give the lunchbox itself a wipe down with a disinfectant to make sure it's clean before you start. If you're packing perishable foods such as sandwiches with eggs, deli meats, chicken or tuna, adding an icepack or investing in an insulated lunchbox is perfect for keeping things cold until lunchtime. Alternatively, a frozen individual juice box can be a great substitute for an icepack if you're short on space. If your packing hot foods like soups, always place them in a vacuum bottle or thermos that you've sterilized with boiling water before hand. It's best to keep the hot foods in a separate, spill-proof container away from any perishables. Washed fruits and vegetables, crackers, and baked goods can be eaten at room temperature, and are always great additions in any lunchbox. Preparing lunches the night before can be a real time saver in the morning. Just pack everything and leave it the fridge. All you need to do is a grab and go on your way out the next day. So get into the routine of packing lunches while remembering the rules of food safety. Your stomach and your pocketbook will thank you!