The UK has more than half a million vending machines which translates to approximately one vending machine for every 55 people. These vending machines sell over seven billion items each year, bringing in approximately £1.6 billion in revenue.
Traditional vending machines are loaded with chocolate bars, crisps, salty snacks, sweets and fizzy drinks. These are wrapped in brightly coloured packaging to look attractive and eye-catching. They are scrumptious as an occasional treat, however over time regular consumption of sugary treats, salty snacks and fizzy drinks can have a negative impact on your health and wellbeing. In studies, it has been found that the most commonly bought vending machine items purchased in the UK are crisps followed closely by chocolates.
The effects of too many crisps and chocolate bars
Eating crisps and chocolates on a regular basis, especially as an alternative to a proper meal can cause many health complications. Crisps are low in nutrients including vitamins and minerals which are important for maintaining overall health, instead they are high in salt, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues if consumed on a regular basis. They are also high in trans fats, which are known to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and other related complications over time. Eating too many chocolate bars also results in a wide range of health issues including weight gain and obesity, cavities and tooth decay, as well as an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
The effects of too much caffeine
Hot drinks are also very popular and make up a large percentage of the market share. It is estimated that more than eight million cups of coffee and two million cups of tea are served from UK vending machines every day! That is a lot of caffeine. Caffeine in small doses is safe and can help you feel refreshed and focused, however caffeine also has negative health implications when consumed in high doses. Too much caffeine may cause headaches, anxiety, insomnia and irritability. It can cause thirst and frequent urination and in severe cases too much caffeine can even cause respiratory issues and chest pain.
It is important that if you do take advantage of vending machines that you do so only when it is essential and you do not have a healthy alternative available to you at the time. Traditional vending machines are suitable for when you are in a rush and no other food is available at the time. They are also suitable for the occasional treat, but they are not suitable for regular use. If you get into a habit of eating from a vending machine rather than having a proper meal, then you will suffer from all types of health issues as mentioned above.
Healthy vending machines
Recently there has been an increase in healthy vending machines. Healthy vending machines are an excellent alternative to traditional vending machines. Healthy vending machines offer nutritious snacks and drinks, rather than chocolate bars, crisps and fizzy drinks as found in traditional vending machines. If you have access to a healthy vending machine then you will have delicious, nutritious snacks to choose from, as well as fruit juices and milk drinks that will not only fill you up and satisfy your hunger pangs, but also promote better health and wellbeing at the same time.
Healthy, nutritious snacks should provide you with vitamins, minerals and fibre that help keep your body functioning optimally throughout the day. It is important to make good food choices whenever possible to help prevent complications such as obesity, dental health issues, cardiovascular disease and diabetes which are commonly caused by food and drink. By improving your diet, you will improve your overall health and wellbeing. Healthy vending
machines can help you do this.
If you have a venue, whether it is a workplace, educational institute, hospital, entertainment venue, office, factory, shopping centre, waiting area or other similar space where there is the need for a vending machine, then you need to find out about healthy vending machines and promote nutritious eating that is delicious and enjoyable, to encourage better health for the people around you. If your workplace has a traditional vending machine or needs a vending machine, then you can suggest healthy vending machines to the people in charge and enjoy better food choices whenever you are in a rush and do not have time for a proper meal. Find out more about vending machines that promote proper nourishment today and the many advantages that they can bring to you and the people around you.
