If your child has a peanut allergy (or if they can’t bring peanuts to school), suddenly, packing lunch becomes a complicated matter because a ready-made option is removed from the list. The good news is that there are other things you can use that your child might like as much, or even more, than peanut butter. Here are 9 alternatives to peanut butter and jam that you might not have thought of.
1- Cream cheese
Of course, this is not suitable for those who are allergic to dairy products, but cream cheese has many advantages to put in a sandwich. It has a thick and spreadable texture; It acts like a moist wall that keeps the bread from getting soggy.
2- Guacamole
Guacamole is so delicious that it can stand on its own on a sandwich. It’s especially good with pita bread or tortillas, and it’s great as a chicken seasoning. Green color is an advantage for children.
3- Cranberry sauce
Many families buy cranberry sauce only once a year. at Easter. This sauce is a great topping for chicken or turkey sandwiches during the school year. You can keep the bread from getting soggy by adding mayonnaise to your turkey and cranberry sandwich.
4- Homs
A Middle Eastern appetizer that has recently become widespread in the United States as well. Hummus is a healthy choice for sandwiches (as well as dips). You can find this sesame seed extract on the shelves of many stores, or you can make it yourself using a simple recipe. This food is rich in protein, especially suitable for vegetarian families.
5- vegetable puree
Most kids won’t eat vegetables when they look like vegetables, but they will eat them when they’ve been cleverly disguised. Pureed vegetables like red peppers are colorful and delicious, but at the same time, they don’t reveal much of their true beneficial taste. These purées can be used as a sandwich filling, although it is better to apply a moist layer such as cream cheese, butter or oil to prevent the bread from getting soggy, especially when preparing it for consumption in the next few hours.
6- Salad seasoning
Salad dressings are often a potential source of hidden allergens, so read the label carefully, but your child’s favorite dressing may be delicious on a sandwich. Try Blue Cheese, Ranch, or Thousand Island dressing.
7- Bean dip
Mexican bean dip, like hummus, is a great sandwich topping. Serve with Kale Jack or Asadero cheese and some salsa.
8- Sunflower and soybean butter
Two ingredients made especially for kids who are allergic to peanuts (or go to a school where they can’t take peanuts) are soy butter and sunflower seed butter. You can buy these two ingredients in the health food or special food aisle of grocery stores or chain stores or health foods. Both are free of peanuts and three tree nuts, although soy butter is not safe for children with soy allergies.
9- Butter other nuts
Note: This may be a dangerous alternative, as some children who are allergic to peanuts are also allergic to the other 3 nuts. However, if your child has tested and is only allergic to peanuts and not the other three nuts, butter substitutes will provide a peanut butter-like experience. Almond butter, cashew butter and hazelnut butter are relatively abundant. If you are concerned about your child’s use of shea butter, see a doctor.
