Jump to content
This site uses cookies. Continued use is acceptance of our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. More Info... ×

  • Welcome to Celiac.com!

    You have found your celiac tribe! Join us and ask questions in our forum, share your story, and connect with others.



  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A1):

    Celiac.com Sponsor (A1-M):

  • Get Celiac.com Updates:
    Support Our Content
    eNewsletter
    Donate

Bento Box Saves School Lunch! Onigiri Rocks!

zarfkitty

Recommended Posts

Fiddle-Faddle Community Regular
Fiddle-Faddle
Posted

Kassandra, that looks fantastic! Where in Target are those Bento-ish Boxes located?

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):
Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8-M):


  • Replies 96
  • Created
  • Last Reply
confusedks Enthusiast
confusedks
Posted

They are in the tupperware container aisle. It's not usually on the aisle with "disposable" containers, but the aisle with "real" containers. If I remember correctly it was only about $8.

Kassandra

Fiddle-Faddle Community Regular
Fiddle-Faddle
Posted

Thanks so much! I'm gonna go to Target tomorrow!!! I can get one for every member of the family for the same price as buying one fancy one!

2boysmama Apprentice
2boysmama
Posted

I've been watching this thread for a while, and the Bento box looks really cool. I'd be more inclinded to get the "copycat" at Target a pp was talking about (I have two kids I send food for and I can't see shelling out $30 a pop). My question is this - my boys are in daycare and I have to send breakfast, lunch, and 2 or 3 snacks....I love the idea of the compartments but it looks like I would end up using plastic baggies anyway for the other meals, plus having them carry two bags or something (one for the laptop lunch, one for the rest of the stuff)...any ideas?

missy'smom Collaborator
missy'smom
Posted

Do you have any asian markets near you? You can pick up smaller obentos with removable compartments for alot less and could get one for lunch, one for breakfast and one for snack if needed. For my son I used the diposable gladware(it's a different brand but I got them at the supermarket) type with two sections and put his lunch in one side and snack on the other. This was for camp and was not a meal that would be warmed up in the microwave. (I don't like microwaving in plastic) In the past I have used foil cupcake liners or other small plastic containers to separate foods in a container without compartments. I choose a container that is an appropriate size for the amount of food my kid can eat and pack it full and don't sent liquidy or really saucy stuff and haven't had a problem with food migration or flavors mixing.

Rubbermaid Take Alongs are what I was talking about above and what's the picture.

Fiddle-Faddle Community Regular
Fiddle-Faddle
Posted

I bought 4 of the Target Pseudo-Bento Boxes ("Sorta-Bentos??"), and they are great! They even come with their own skinny freezer-pak blue-ice thingie! Only thing is, I think I'll have to bag or wrap the sandwich anyway, as I can't see how the blue-ice thingie wouldn't leak condensation all over the sandwich.

However, I'm thrilled to find out that the whole thing fits neatly in standard insulated lunch bags! (And I bet this will help avoid that awful lunch-box-spill-odor!!!)

Cheri A Contributor
Cheri A
Posted

I bought one today too! And also some toothpicks! I am not sure if I'll freeze that blue thing. I've had those type things leak out last year. I may just use it as a shelf. I was glad to find out that it will fit in our lunch boxes too! :)

Today for lunch, Carleigh had fresh apple slices and cinnamon toast cut into a heart and a circle with a side of baby carrots.

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):
Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8-M):


confusedks Enthusiast
confusedks
Posted

Mmm...this is all making me hungry. I'm excited for the school year to start so I can take my fake bento (from target) to school. I bought a purple arctic zone lunch box thing and it fits in the lunch box perfectly. I know some people are skeptics about the blue ice thing, but it really does keep the food really cold which is nice because it's about 100 degrees here in L.A.

Kassandra

P.S. Does anyone have any books for ideas for bento boxing?

missy'smom Collaborator
missy'smom
Posted

There's a book called Bento Boxes, Japanese Meals on the Go by Namoi Kijima. It's in English but uses some Asian ingredients. It has photos of everything and recipies are geared toward just the right amount for an obento- one or two servings.

Fiddle-Faddle Community Regular
Fiddle-Faddle
Posted
I am not sure if I'll freeze that blue thing. I've had those type things leak out last year.

I'm definitely gonna freeze the blue thing--my kids like rolled up ham-and-cheese--but I'm either going to put the blue thing in a zipper bag, or the ham-and-cheese-roll-ups in a zipper bag. Or maybe both (which kinda defeats the purpose of getting non-disposable containers, doesn't it? :rolleyes: ).

confusedks Enthusiast
confusedks
Posted

Lol. That does kind of defeat the purpose. I'd try putting the ice in a bag, it makes more sense.

Kassandra

2boysmama Apprentice
2boysmama
Posted
Do you have any asian markets near you? You can pick up smaller obentos with removable compartments for alot less and could get one for lunch, one for breakfast and one for snack if needed. For my son I used the diposable gladware(it's a different brand but I got them at the supermarket) type with two sections and put his lunch in one side and snack on the other. This was for camp and was not a meal that would be warmed up in the microwave. (I don't like microwaving in plastic) In the past I have used foil cupcake liners or other small plastic containers to separate foods in a container without compartments. I choose a container that is an appropriate size for the amount of food my kid can eat and pack it full and don't sent liquidy or really saucy stuff and haven't had a problem with food migration or flavors mixing.

Rubbermaid Take Alongs are what I was talking about above and what's the picture.

Oh thanks for that! I'll have to check out one of the Asian markets - I didn't even think to look there. :huh:

Cheri A Contributor
Cheri A
Posted

I washed my bento-like box today and was bummed to turn it over and find out that it's made in China <_<

Fiddle-Faddle Community Regular
Fiddle-Faddle
Posted
I washed my bento-like box today and was bummed to turn it over and find out that it's made in China <_<

Are Zip-loc bags made in China?

Cheri A Contributor
Cheri A
Posted
Are Zip-loc bags made in China?

I just checked mine. They are made in the USA.

I forgot to respond about the 2 kids and breakfast, lunch and snacks. I think I'd just use a regular lunch box wih containers to fit more. Or, as someone else said, maybe use the divided plates. Wow, that's a lot of meal packing for you!

2boysmama Apprentice
2boysmama
Posted
I just checked mine. They are made in the USA.

I forgot to respond about the 2 kids and breakfast, lunch and snacks. I think I'd just use a regular lunch box wih containers to fit more. Or, as someone else said, maybe use the divided plates. Wow, that's a lot of meal packing for you!

It is....and now that my one year old is refusing baby foods and wanting table foods, it'll be double...actually more because I pack my lunch and DH has decided he wants me to pack a lunch for him too! :blink:

gfpaperdoll Rookie
gfpaperdoll
Posted

Where are the bento boxes made? I am leary of China & plastic. Heck I am leary of anything made in China that might come near my food...

Also, I guess ya'll did know that it came out a year or so ago that those vinyl lunch boxes with the plastic on the top that depicted an action hero or something were all very high in lead, inside the lunch box & outside

Fiddle-Faddle Community Regular
Fiddle-Faddle
Posted
Also, I guess ya'll did know that it came out a year or so ago that those vinyl lunch boxes with the plastic on the top that depicted an action hero or something were all very high in lead, inside the lunch box & outside

Yikes, I didn't know that! :blink:

zarfkitty Explorer
zarfkitty
Posted
  • Author

from laptop lunch website:

11. I have heard that some plastics can cause health problems. Should I be concerned about that?

* At Obentec, Inc. we are extremely concerned about toxins in our food and in the environment. Thus we take great care to ensure that we use the safest materials available. For this reason we manufacture our lunch containers here in California using plastics (polypropylene and polyethylene) that are FDA-approved for food use. We do not use any binding agents or plasticizers in the process. We do not use any materials that are suspected carcinogens or endocrine disrupters.

* Most parents currently pack lunches in plastic wrap, plastic bags, and single-serve plastic packages, including PET water bottles, which are considered far less stable than their reusable counterparts. Plastic may not be the perfect solution, but it does offer a stylish, affordable, non-breakable alternative for families wishing to move from a disposable to a reusable system.

19. I recently read a press release about children's lunchboxes containing lead! Is this for real? What about Laptop Lunches? Have they been tested?

I assume that you're referring to the Center for Environmental Health's press release entitled "A Back to School Warning: Children

gfpaperdoll Rookie
gfpaperdoll
Posted

Thanks for the post, looks like I will be a new customer !!!!

gfpaperdoll Rookie
gfpaperdoll
Posted

zarfkitty, I just saw that you are in Austin. ThatChickAli is a new dxd person that also lives in Austin, she is getting ready to go to college in Lubbock. If you have time, would you PM her to offer any support? Thanks, I was in austin one weekend & took her through the Grocery store...

I sent her the link to the Austin support group, but not sure if she has contacted them...

buffettbride Enthusiast
buffettbride
Posted

I know the Laptop Lunches seem pricier than other ones, but they really do seem sturdier, and the intent is to get many years of use out of them. Plus, it supports other moms who work to keep the food for their kids healthy as well. It seems to be a quality product backed by people who care about the product, too.

Not to say anything bad about folks who choose to purchase something like it elsewhere at all because even a different version of the theme still makes it easier and better to pack lunches for our Celiacs. :)

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

Go to topic listing
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A19):


  • Member Statistics

    • Total Members
      127,081
    • Most Online (within 30 mins)
      7,748
    R Chester
    Newest Member
    R Chester
    Joined
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A20):

  • Forum Statistics

    • Total Topics
      121k
    • Total Posts
      69.9k
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A22):



  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A21):


  • Upcoming Events

  • Posts

    • Scott Adams
      Rice, corn, and other gluten-free grains.

      By Scott Adams · Posted

      Your approach is spot-on—trusting reliable sources like Mayo Clinic and sticking to a gluten-free diet that works for you is the best way to navigate all the noise out there. The claim that rice and corn contain forms of gluten harmful to celiacs is indeed a misconception. While these grains do contain proteins that may technically be referred to as "glutens" in a broader scientific sense, they are structurally and functionally different from the gliadin found in wheat, which is the specific protein harmful to those with celiac disease. Scientific research overwhelmingly supports the safety of non-contaminated rice and corn for celiacs unless there’s a separate sensitivity or allergy involved. Some opinion pieces or alternative health sources may blur the lines by conflating these proteins, which can cause unnecessary worry. You're absolutely correct to focus on the distinction between scientifically validated information and anecdotal claims. It's also important to note that some people with celiac disease may develop sensitivities to other grains over time, but this is individual and not a universal rule. If you’re asymptomatic and thriving on a diet that includes certified gluten-free products with rice and corn, there’s no reason to change what’s clearly working for you. The internet is a breeding ground for well-meaning but misguided advice, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Your instinct to validate claims through reliable research is exactly the right way to go. Keep enjoying your gluten-free meals, stick with trusted certifications, and don’t feel pressured to adopt restrictive diets that aren’t backed by science or tailored to your specific needs. Happy New Year to you too!
    • Scott Adams
      Enegy level extremely low

      By Scott Adams · Posted

      Healing and regaining energy after a celiac diagnosis can be a frustratingly slow process, but you're not alone in feeling this way! Everyone's healing journey is different, and factors like age, how long celiac was undiagnosed, and the extent of intestinal damage can all play a role. In general, villi can begin to heal within a few weeks to months after starting a strict gluten-free diet, but for some adults—especially those diagnosed later in life—it can take a year or more to see significant improvement. Studies suggest that older adults may heal more slowly, but it does happen with consistent gluten avoidance. Since you're already taking iron, vitamin D3, and a multivitamin, you're on the right track. Here are a few additional tips that might help: Be Patient with Your Body: It’s hard to wait, but healing takes time. Track your progress in small ways—maybe energy levels on a scale of 1-10 each week—to notice gradual improvements. Check for Other Deficiencies: Sometimes celiacs have trouble absorbing other nutrients, like B12, magnesium, or zinc, which can also affect energy levels. Your doctor may want to test for these. Consider Other Conditions: Fatigue can be linked to other issues like thyroid problems, adrenal fatigue, or even sleep disturbances, which can sometimes occur alongside celiac disease. It might be worth discussing this with your healthcare provider. Stay Active, but Pace Yourself: Gentle exercise, like walking or yoga, can help improve energy levels, but don’t push yourself too hard—listen to your body. Hydration and Balanced Meals: Make sure you're drinking enough water and eating a balanced gluten-free diet with plenty of whole foods. Sometimes highly processed gluten-free products can leave you feeling sluggish. Remember, healing isn’t just physical—it’s also mental. You’ve made a huge, positive change by going gluten-free, and your body is working hard to repair itself. It’s okay to feel impatient, but know that you're moving in the right direction. Hang in there—you’ll get there!
    • Lotte18
      Can food allergies like milk and soy flatten villi?

      By Lotte18 · Posted

      Hi Scott, I thought I'd be like "most people" and could go back to having dairy once my villi had healed.  But after dealing with neurological problems that cropped up long after my gut had healed it turned out that this just wasn't true.  I have no idea if celiac influences pancreatic enzyme production or if it's the other way around--for some of us-- but there is a very real relationship that isn't being discussed with patients.  The article just reiterates information that can mislead you if your real problem is pancreatic not villi related.  
    • Scott Adams
      Sprouts packaged roasted, salted nuts - says "made in a facility that processes wheat" - has anyone had a problem?

      By Scott Adams · Posted

      One of our current sponsors sells gluten-free nuts: https://www.tierrafarm.com/
    • trents
      Sprouts packaged roasted, salted nuts - says "made in a facility that processes wheat" - has anyone had a problem?

      By trents · Posted

      Welcome to the forum, @Amyinwyoming! Answers to your question that you might receive may not be helpful to you as an individual since sensitivity levels vary significantly within the gluten sensitive/gluten intolerant/celiac community. The other complicating factor is that low levels of gluten in a product may not cause obvious symptoms but may still generate low level inflammation in the small bowel. When in doubt, it is best to pass on the product. I'm not a particularly sensitive celiac so I might allow myself to eat something at a guest's house that was made from a food product with the kind of disclaimer label you describe but I typically shy away from buying them or consuming them when I have a choice.
×
×
  • Create New...