The school bell’s ringing, the lunchboxes are packed, and your kids are off for another big day of learning. But what they snack on during the day can make a huge difference in their energy, focus, and even their mood.
As a parent, you want snacks that tick all the right boxes—nutritious, filling, and easy to pack. But with so many options out there, it’s tough to find something that actually keeps them going without the sugar highs (and crashes) or leftover crumbs at the bottom of the bag.
The good news? High-protein, no-mess snacks like jerky and biltong are here to save the day. They’re delicious, packed with protein to keep kids full, and require zero prep—just grab, pack, and go.
The problem with typical school snacks
Not all snacks are created equal—especially when it comes to keeping kids full and focused throughout the school day. While plenty of snacks are marketed as "healthy" or "kid-friendly," many fall short where it really counts.
Here’s why typical school snacks for kids don’t always do the job.
Too much added sugar
Many snacks, like muesli bars, yoghurts, and fruit pouches, are loaded with added sugar. While they might give kids a quick energy boost, they also lead to crashes—leaving them tired and unfocused by the afternoon.
Not filling enough
Crackers, popcorn, and rice cakes might seem like a good choice, but they’re mostly carbs with little protein. That means kids get hungry again quickly, leading to distracted, grumpy little learners.
Messy & wasteful
Some snacks leave behind sticky fingers, crumbs, or half-eaten leftovers. If you’re a parent, know the struggle of finding a mushy banana or crushed crackers at the bottom of a school bag!
Time-consuming to prep
Chopping fruit, making sandwiches, or portioning out snacks takes time—something most parents don’t have in the busy morning rush.
Why beef jerky & biltong are the ultimate school snacks for kids
High in protein = keep kids fuelled & focused
Protein is essential for keeping kids satisfied between meals, helping to sustain their energy levels and concentration throughout the school day. Snacks like beef jerky and biltong provide a steady source of fuel, preventing hunger pangs and helping kids stay alert and engaged in their learning without relying on sugary options.
Low in sugar = no afternoon crashes
Many snack options contain hidden sugars, leading to quick energy spikes followed by sluggish crashes. Choosing low-sugar, high-protein snacks like jerky or biltong helps maintain balanced energy levels, keeping kids feeling steady and focused rather than experiencing mid-day fatigue.
Delicious & satisfying = no mess, no waste
The best snacks are the ones kids actually eat! A truly satisfying snack is both nutritious and enjoyable, meaning there are no half-eaten leftovers, sticky messes, or crumb-covered lunchboxes at the end of the day. Plus, our reusable silicone food bag makes snack time even easier—eco-friendly, easy to clean, and saves money on single-use plastic snack bags. Less waste, more taste!
No prep needed = perfect for busy mornings
Mornings can be hectic, and convenience matters. A snack like jerky or biltong that’s ready to grab and go—without the need for slicing, portioning, or packing complicated ingredients—makes life easier for parents while ensuring kids still get the nourishment they need.
The best Jerky Co. snacks for kids’ lunchboxes
Not sure where to start? Here are our top picks from The Jerky Co. that make the perfect school snacks—high in protein, low in sugar, and mess-free!
Traditional beef jerky
A classic favourite! Our Traditional Beef Jerky is packed with 54.8g of protein per 100g, making it an excellent source of long-lasting energy for growing kids. Unlike many snack options that lead to energy crashes, this protein-rich choice helps keep kids full, focused, and ready to take on the school day. It’s also low in sugar, ensuring that little learners stay energised without the mid-afternoon slump. Plus, it’s tender, flavourful, and mess-free—so you won’t have to worry about crumbs or sticky hands. Simply toss a portion into their lunchbox, and they’re good to go!
Traditional beef biltong
For a softer, easier-to-chew alternative, our Traditional Beef Biltong is a fantastic choice. Made from high-quality beef and naturally air-dried, it retains all the goodness of jerky but with a more tender texture—perfect for younger kids or those who prefer a softer bite. This nutrient-dense, high-protein snack is incredibly satisfying while being low in sugar, so kids can enjoy a tasty treat that fuels their day without artificial additives. Whether eaten on its own or paired with cheese or crackers, biltong is a wholesome, mess-free lunchbox essential.
Fruit jerky
Need a naturally sweet option without the sugar overload? Our Air-Dried Fruit Salad Jerky is the perfect alternative to sugary fruit snacks. Made from 100% real fruit with no added sugar, this chewy, flavourful snack is rich in fibre and essential vitamins, making it a great way to add extra nutrients to your child’s diet. It’s a fun, mess-free treat that satisfies their sweet tooth while complementing protein-packed lunch items like jerky or biltong. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with Greek yoghurt for an added protein boost, Fruit Jerky is a delicious, guilt-free choice for school snacks.
Making back-to-school snacking easy
School mornings are hectic, but packing a nutritious, no-fuss lunchbox doesn’t have to be! With beef jerky and biltong, you’ve got high-protein, mess-free school snacks for kids that keeps them full, focused, and ready to tackle the day.
So why settle for the same old snacks? Stock up on The Jerky Co’s premium beef jerky and biltong today and make school lunches easier, tastier, and packed with protein-powered goodness!
