MINNEAPOLIS – Jack Link’s hopes to make the grade with a line of back-to-school-inspired meat sticks. The company is promoting lunchbox-size meat sticks as a protein-rich alternative to less nutritious options for school-age kids bringing lunch from home.

Available in turkey flavor as well as original and pepperoni beef flavors, the sticks are available individually wrapped at retail outlets in packs of 10.   

“We saw a need to create a high-quality, portable snack that not only tastes great, but delivers on high protein so our kids can give each day their full potential," said TD Dixon, chief marketing officer at Jack Link's.

With 6 grams of protein each, Dixon said the sticks can provide the fuel kids need to get through their school day without the sugar of some lunchbox mainstays.

“We want kids to substitute sweet treats for meat treats, enabling them to fill up on great tasting beef sticks that are packed with protein,” Dixon said.