As thousands of children return to school from Tuesday, parents and caregivers once again face the challenge of providing nutritious, affordable and quick-to-prepare school lunch boxes.
While a hastily made sandwich and cold drink were once acceptable, the rules of the game have changed.
Long school hours and lengthy commutes require more substantial meals, while the spiralling cost of living has made convenience shopping expensive.
Food allergies and intolerances add another level of complexity.
Factor in load-shedding, with schedules that change rapidly, and you have all the ingredients for a family argument, late arrival at school, and possibly wasted food.
To add to the challenge, in some school circles the standard of snacks has been elevated.