Information On Healthy Vending Machines in Schools ...

 

Vending machines are another outlet in schools where children can often buy sugary soft drinks, crisps and chocolate bars and it is important that they too reflect the whole school approach to healthy eating.Some schools may prefer to remove the machines altogether but that is not the only option as the products on sale can be changed to include healthier items such as bottled water or milk drinks and alternatives to crisps and sweets such as muffins, cereal bars and lower fat crisps and crackers. More Information Click Here
 
Photographs of a teenage boy trying a healthy drink and a primary boy holding an apple

The School Nutrition Action Group (SNAG) could lead changes to the vending machine service in schools by liaising with the supplier, sometimes the school catering service, to investigate healthier choices and pass on ideas from pupils, parents and staff.

Using vending machines to dispense sandwiches, yoghurts, fruit and home baking, such as muffins or scones, can be a useful way of easing pressure on the school dining hall and providing a quick lunch outlet for those who don't want something hot.

Placing the vending machine in a practical and prominent position and ensuring pupils and staff know about the healthier options it sells are important considerations as well.

A move away from heavily branded vending machines in schools has already started with the removal of advertising. The SNAG should check with the vending machine supplier about removing existing branding and advertising from machines in the school.

Useful links

Health Education Trust Vending pages
The Health Education Trust campaigns for better vending in schools and these web pages have information on how to provide healthier vending options and a host of links to advice and toolkits.

PDF file iconPDF file: Food Standards Agency publication: Vending Healthy Drinks
The Food Standards Agency has produced this guide for schools to help them set up healthy drinks vending machines. It was created following a successful pilot study of healthy drink vending in 12 secondary schools across England.

Automatic Vending Association
The Automatic Vending Association (AVA) website has contact details for members, details of the AVA Quality Scheme, a dedicated vending in schools page and a range of publications.

Source http://www.healthpromotingschools.co.uk/familyandcommunity/eatingforhealth/vendingmachines.asp

 

 

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