Tips for great meals on the go.

TIPS FOR GREAT MEALS ON THE GO

DEAR GAYLE:

We are suffering from brown bag blues. It is spring but our brown bag meals are the same day after day. Do you have some healthy suggestions for the rest of the year. Also, sometimes my husband needs a brown bag breakfast or dinner. We are looking forward to your ideas.

DEAR I.H.:

Here are some ideas for exciting lunches if you have to pack it, sack it or box it!

Meals can be streamlined by using some convenience foods reduced in calories, fat and sodium.

You do not have to trade flavor and convenience for good health. An hour in the kitchen can yield a few days' worth of ready-to-eat meals on the go. Try these tips in planning and preparing meals:

1. Start with low sodium, low fat canned or dried soups

2. Use 95-98 percent fat free deli meats.

3. Drain and rinse canned beans and vegetables.

4. Use light spreads: margarine, mayonnaise, salad dressing.

5. Use 1/2 nonfat yogurt & 1/2 mayonnaise in tuna, chicken and egg salads.

6. Use a variety of breads: rye, wheat, sourdough, pita etc.

MEALS

WITH

APPEAL

"TO GO"

PACKING MEALS TO GO:

1. Keep everything that touches food clean. Stop and wash your hands before preparing food. Your hands continually pick up bacteria.

2. Cook food thoroughly. For complete safety, raw meat, poultry, and fish should be cooked.

3. Refrigerate lunches…