Coolers are devices made to keep food cold until consumption. They are usually made from plastics in an insulated and portable fashion to allow for easy transportation of food and beverages while keeping them cool. Loose ice or ice packs are used to set the temperature for the cooler, which can remain at that temperature for hours. Coolers are often filled with comfort foods or snacks that can be unhealthy, but you can pack a healthier cooler for relatively less money.
Step 1
Pack bottled water. Water keeps the body hydrated and helps detoxify it, among other things. It is a healthier and cheaper alternative to soft drinks or even fruit juices, which may be loaded with sugar and other additives.
Step 2
Pack fresh fruit and vegetables. These have a number of health benefits, including an array of nutrients that can not be found in supplements. Each fruit or vegetable have their own nutrient levels, so include a variety. Apple quarters, carrot and celery sticks, grapes, cucumbers and broccoli can be cut into bite-sized pieces and placed in sandwich bags.
Step 3
Incorporate whole grains into the foods list. Foods made from whole grains provide fiber and energy as well as nutrients like vitamin B-12, iron and magnesium. Loose granola or granola bars, trail mix, crackers and bread sticks all can be found in a whole-grain version and can provide healthy yet tasty snacks. Avoid snacks loaded with sugars and salt, such as potato chips and candy bars.
Step 4
Use pita bread or tortilla wraps instead of sliced bread when making sandwiches to pack. These are generally healthier than sliced bread, especially those made from whole wheat. In addition, sliced bread tends to get soggy, all the more so when there are high water content vegetables in the sandwich, such as lettuce and tomato. Choose low-fat cheeses and spreads that do not need refrigeration and can't start smelling, like mayonnaise, which is also loaded with fat calories.
Step 5
Cover the contents with ice. An even layer of ice spread over the top of the cooler will lock in cold and can keep food fresh for hours. Some coolers are made from soft fabric, which can get damaged by water. In that case, use ice packs and layer them over the contents of the cooler.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid foods that require refrigeration. Fill the cooler with food and beverages to its full capacity. Full coolers keep cool longer than partially full coolers. A low-fat salad dressing can be used as a dip for fruit and vegetables.
- Remember that coolers are just that: coolers. They serve to keep foods and beverages cool, but do not chill food like a freezer or refrigerator.
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