Encourage healthy snacking on the go with these tips for successfully implementing vending machine standards:
· Price – beverages and foods that meet nutrition standards should be priced competitively (e.g., at or below) to similar items that do not meet nutrition standards
· Placement – beverages and foods that meet nutrition standards should be as, or more, visible than similar items that do not meet the nutrition standards (for example, they should be closer to eye level).
· Promotion – promotional space on vending machines (e.g., sides and front panel), including but not limited to language and graphics, should promote only products that meet the nutrition standards.
· Hold taste tests – partner with vendors to offer taste testing of a variety of snack and beverage options that meet the nutrition standards. Have survey cards handy and tally up votes. Share results of taste testing and keep vending machines stocked with favorite items.
· Administer online surveys – provide online surveys in addition to or in lieu of in-person taste testing. Use online surveys as opportunities to promote healthy options in vending machines.
· Educate and promote – work with nutrition committee or health team to provide education to leadership and employees about the benefits of offering and choosing healthy foods and beverages. Use promotional methods like posters, flyers, e-cards, emails to staff, newsletter articles to promote healthy options, cultivate support for the program, and promote educational events, taste testing, etc. Work with leadership for strong buy-in, and have leadership’s message and signature on promotional materials and messages.
· Announce to community – share information with the public to increase acceptance of the program and make healthier snacking the norm. Share information with the public through press releases, social media, etc.
Source: Center for Science in the Public Interest