Idli vs Chapati: Which Is The Healthier Tiffin Option For School Lunch?

Idli vs Chapati: When packing school lunch for kids, parents are often confused about what should be packed for tiffin that is healthy, filling and easy to eat between classes. Among the variety of tiffin options, the two lunch box staples for kids are idlis and chapatis. Both are easy, wholesome and provide enough nutrients to the body. However, there is often a dilemma among parents about whether idlis or chapatis make a healthier tiffin option for kids at school. Idlis are easily digestible and light on the stomach. Chapatis, on the other hand, are rich in fibre, which provides sustained energy and nutrients to children.

While considering the tiffin option for kids for school lunch, it is important to keep in mind the nutrition, hunger satisfaction and meal requirement supporting the child’s growth and energy. While idlis are low in fat but high in probiotics, chapatis offer sustained fullness and keep hunger at bay till mid-morning. But which is a healthier tiffin option for kids at school, idlis or chapatis? Here’s all you need to know.

Idli vs Chapati: Benefits Of These Lunch Tiffin Options For Kids

Nutrition And Energy

Idli is made from a fermented batter of rice and urad dal. It is light, fluffy and easy to digest. The fermentation process increases nutrient absorption, providing gut-friendly probiotics. Idlis are low in calories and fat, making them a suitable choice for children at school.

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Chapati, on the other hand, is made from whole wheat flour and is rich in complex carbohydrates and fibre. It provides sustained energy, keeping children full for longer and preventing mid-morning hunger pangs. Besides, chapatis are a good source of iron and B vitamins.

Ease Of Eating

Idlis are bite-sized, non-messy, and easy for children to eat in between classes and do not need extra accompaniments. Chapatis are usually accompanied by a curry or sabzi, which may turn spill or turn soggy in the lunchbox, but dry curries or a roll-style chapati can work well.

Idli vs Chapati For Better School Lunch Option (Image Credits: Canva)

Satiety And Digestibility

Chapatis are more fulfilling and can feel heavy for some children, especially when eaten in a rush. Idlis are steamed and soft, thus being light on the stomach and easily digestible, even when eaten cold. For very active kids who need sustained energy, chapatis are a better tiffin option, while the younger kids can opt for idlis.

Idli vs Chapati: Which Is Better School Lunch Option For Kids?

Both idlis and chapatis are healthy school lunch options. If you want your kids to eat, light, gut-friendly and easy-to-eat meal, then go for idlis. While those kids who require a filling, energy-packed option to stay full till afternoon, chapati works best.

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The smart way for parents is to pack both the tiffin options alternatively. Pack idlis with chutney or podi for one day and chapati rolls with vegetables the next. This not only balances the nutrition but also makes the school lunch exciting.