SWAP IT

22 May 2025

SWAP IT

SWAP IT is a free evidence-based healthy lunchbox program. The program supports parents and carers to SWAP what is packed in their child’s lunchbox from sometimes foods to everyday foods.

The SWAP IT recommendations have been developed based on the latest evidence-based government nutrition guidelines. For more information, visit “About SWAP IT Recommendations”.

Helping parents to SWAP IT

There are many factors that may influence why parents pack certain foods and drinks in the lunchbox, for example child preferences, time and cost. SWAP IT can help parents make the switch from sometimes foods to everyday foods.

Benefits of SWAP IT

Developed by researchers at the University of Newcastle, in conjunction with dietitians and health promotion experts, SWAP IT is an effective, low cost, evidence-based behavioural change program to improve children’s nutrition. SWAP IT supports parents and carers to improve children’s eating habits by ‘swapping out’ sometimes lunchbox foods for everyday alternatives.

Parent Resources

SWAP IT Improves Children’s Nutrition

Research involving more than 40 Australian primary schools and over 6,000 children, found SWAP IT was effective in reducing the consumption of sometimes foods in children’s lunchboxes.