Nut allergies are among the most common - and most serious - allergies in schools. But serving delicious, nut-free meals doesn’t need to be complicated. With thoughtful planning and the right ingredients, schools can provide warm, flavourful lunches that are completely safe for students.
In this post, we’re sharing easy nut-free hot lunch ideas, plus best practices for allergy-safe meal prep that parent councils and vendors can use year-round.
If you're also looking for gluten-free inspiration, check out our recent post:
Gluten-Free Hot Lunch Options Kids Actually Enjoy
Kid-Friendly Nut-Free Hot Lunch Ideas
1. Pasta with Tomato or Cheese Sauce
A warm bowl of pasta is always a favourite. Choose simple sauces such as tomato, marinara, or cheese - no pesto or nut-based seasonings.
2. Chicken Rice Bowls
Mild, flavourful, and filling. Mix seasoned chicken with rice and veggies for a balanced, allergy-safe lunch.
3. Veggie or Beef Chili
Packed with protein and fibre, chili is hearty and naturally nut-free. Serve with bread or corn chips for added crunch.
4. Pancakes or Crepes with Fruit
Breakfast-for-lunch is always a hit. Serve with gluten-free options only if needed, but all crepes and pancakes should be made with nut-free ingredients.
5. Meatballs with Rice or Mashed Potatoes
Choose traditional, nut-free recipes. Pair with vegetables for a complete, warming meal.
How Schools Can Maintain a Truly Nut-Free Meal Environment
Even when a recipe has no nuts, cross-contamination remains the biggest risk. Here are steps schools and vendors should follow:
Dedicated Prep Areas
Work areas, cutting boards, and utensils should be cleaned thoroughly or fully separated from your regular kitchen workflow.
Clear Ingredient Labels
Schools should request clear ingredient breakdowns from vendors - especially for sauces, baked goods, and packaged snacks.
Avoid “May Contain” Products
Even a small risk can create big anxiety for families. Choose products that are certified nut-free.
Train Lunch Volunteers
Volunteers should know what dishes are nut-free, how to avoid cross-contact, and what to do if a concern arises.
Communicate With Parents
Simple, early communication builds trust. Keep families informed about the menu and allergy protocols.
For more tips, see our article:
Creating a Nut-Free Lunch Policy That Works for Your School
Supporting Families With Allergy-Safe Options
When a school lunch program clearly follows allergy-safe practices, families feel reassured - and more willing to participate. Nut-free meals:
Encourage more parents to order hot lunches
Help schools provide an inclusive mealtime environment
Reduce stress for volunteers and staff
Support students with allergies so they can enjoy lunch confidently
Make Allergy-Safe Lunches Easier With LunchUp
LunchUp helps schools:
Build nut-free menus with local vendors
Simplify ordering for families
Reduce administrative tasks for volunteers
Improve menu transparency and safety
Learn how it works here:
About LunchUp – Modern School Lunch & Fundraising Platform
If your school wants to offer easy, safe, kid-approved nut-free meals, LunchUp can help.
Contact us today to explore how your school can simplify lunch ordering and support students with allergies.
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