Vending machines
Like tuck shops, vending machines can also bring extra revenue into schools but it is important that the food and drink sold reflect the whole school approach to healthy eating.
If removing the machines altogether is not possible, then healthier options should be made available including bottled water or milk drinks and alternatives to crisps and sweets such as muffins, cereal bars and lower fat crisps and crackers.
Some schools have their vending machines supplied by the catering service and the School Nutrition Action Group (SNAG) could liaise with it to investigate healthier choices and relay ideas from pupils and staff of products that could be made available.
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 of 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.
Many vending machines in schools are supplied on contracts and it is important to check the details of the contract, whether it allows changes to the products offered and when it is due for renewal, which would be a good time to switch to healthier options. Also remember to shop around for the best deal, both in terms of what you can sell and the benefit for the school.
A move away from heavily branded vending machines in schools has already started with the removal of advertising. You should check with your vending machine supplier or catering service about removing existing branding and advertising from machines in your 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: 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.
