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Do you still pack lunch for work like I do? It might seem like something we outgrow after school, but bringing a lunchbox to the office can be a smart, delicious choice at any age. Packing a lunch isn’t just for kids—adults can (and should) enjoy a packed lunch, too! It allows you to control what you’re eating and can transform a simple midday meal into something special.
When you pack your lunch, you get to decide exactly what goes in it. Whether it’s a healthy salad, a hearty sandwich, or leftovers from a favorite dinner, you can create a meal you know you will love. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about opening a lunchbox filled with homemade goodness. It’s like giving yourself a little gift in the middle of the workday—a moment of calm and enjoyment that breaks up the routine and helps you recharge.
According to a 2023 article in Forbes, many workers skip lunch due to time constraints or budget concerns. Another report on Workforce.com highlights that those who take lunch breaks tend to be happier and more productive. Making time for lunch can significantly impact our workday positively.
When I work outside my home office on Tuesdays and Thursdays, I often bring leftovers from last night’s dinner or pack meat, produce and other products I picked up from Margie’s Market or Good Measure Market. Both spots offer fantastic, Arkansas-made products that fill my lunchbox with goodness.
Hint: A cooler full of Arkansas-made products makes the perfect picnic when exploring Arkansas’s state parks.
Why is Lunch So Important?
You’ve probably heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but I think a solid argument could be made for lunch. Taking a proper lunch break isn’t just about refueling—it’s crucial for our physical and mental well-being. A balanced lunch provides essential nutrients that sustain energy levels throughout the day. It also gives us a mental break, helping us recharge and maintain focus for the afternoon tasks.
Arkansas-Made Products for Your Lunchbox
Adding Arkansas-made products to your lunchbox is not only fresh and delicious, but it also supports local businesses and farms. Plus, there’s something special about enjoying food that’s made with care and passion right here in Arkansas. Here are some delightful Arkansas-made products to consider:
Photo courtesy of Serenity Farm Bread
Bread
Briar Oak Family Farms – Sourdough
Serenity Farm Bread – Old-world sourdough bread baked in a wood-fired brick oven.
Stonemill Bread – A variety of freshly made, preservative-free breads.
Meat and Cheese
Little Man Jerky – Beef jerky, snack sticks, salsa, smoked cheese and more.
Willowbrook Farm – Brebis Blanc Goat’s Milk Cheese
Beef Snob – Meat Sticks
Natural State Jerky – Craft Beef Jerky
Coursey’s Smoked Meats – Smoked turkey, ham, bacon, cheddar and Swiss
Petit Jean Meats – Bologna, ham, bacon, hot dogs, summer sausage
White River Creamery – Artisan cheese from goat and cow dairy
Snacks, Sweets & Treats
Aunt Susie’s Granola – Small-batch, gourmet granola, overnight oats and snacks.
Maria’s Homemade Country Fare – Spinach dip, pickles, jelly, and canned goods.
Janice & Melanie (J&M Foods) – Cheese straws and cookies
Loblolly Creamery – Baked goods, macarons, marshmallows
Moonlight Mixes – Snack mixes and mini-seasoned crackers
Blue’s Blasted Chips – Small batch potato chips and tortilla chips.
Photo courtesy of Tiffany Selvey
Fresh Produce
For fresh produce, check with your local farmer’s market or farm-to-table store. We love Margie’s Market in Bald Knob and Good Measure Market in Searcy. You can also go straight to the source for a lot of seasonal produce:
Peaches
Blueberries
Watermelon
Apples
Strawberries
Pumpkins
Sips
Natural State Beverage Company – Small batch craft sodas and kombucha
Mountain Valley Spring Water – Still and sparkling spring water directly from the source in Hot Springs.
Post – Red and white muscadine grape juice.
Tips for Packing a Lunchbox
Here are some tips to help you pack a lunch that’s as satisfying as it is delicious:
- Plan Ahead – If you are into meal planning like I am, add lunches to your planning so you’re not scrambling at the last minute. Then, take a few minutes the night before to prepare and pack your lunch, making it easier to grab and go in the morning.
- Balance Your Meal – Think of your lunchbox as a well-balanced plate, being sure to include a variety of foods that are sources of protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
- Keep It Fresh – Invest in a good-quality lunchbox and containers that can keep your foods separate and fresh.
- Mix It Up – My husband eats homemade yogurt, a homemade protein muffin and a hard-boiled egg for lunch every single day. All delicious, but not something I could repeat day after day. I would go insane! I’m a strong supporter of the “variety is the spice of life” theory and like to keep my lunchbox varied.
- Include Local Favorites – Incorporating locally made Arkansas products not only supports small businesses but also adds a unique and personal touch to your lunch. Whether it’s a slice of artisanal cheese, a spoonful of homemade jam, or a side of fresh fruit from a local farm, these items can elevate your meal and make it feel special.
- Portion Control – Use smaller containers or bento boxes to help manage portions and ensure you’re getting a balanced meal without overindulging. You also want to avoid that “food coma” feeling for the second half of the day.
Lunchbox Love for Everyone
Remember, lunch isn’t just a meal—it’s a moment to relax and enjoy. By packing a lunch filled with Arkansas-made goods, you’re not only benefiting yourself but setting a great example for your kids, too. They’ll love discovering new flavors and learning about the importance of eating well.
So, whether you’re packing for the office or preparing a lunchbox for your little ones, let Arkansas-made products add a touch of local flavor and freshness to your day. It’s a choice that’s good for you, good for our community, and simply delicious!
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