Did You Know?
When you think of vending machines do you think of old fashioned chips and sodas? Did you know that there are actually lots of more advanced vending machines out today that can deliver products flawlessly each and every time. In fact vending today produces a variety of snacks ranging from hot coffee to fruit to french fries. Below read more amazing facts that you probably never knew about...
- Many school vending machines use stickers to identify products with less than 35% of their calories from fat, 10% fat from saturated fat, and 35% total weight from sugars as part of NAMA's Balanced For Life program.
- The U.S. Department of Agriculture's new food pyramid provides eating and fitness guidelines. You can get a personalized food pyramid here: www.mypyramid.gov
- The vending industry is partners with fitness organizations like America Scores, an association where kids get together and play soccer and write poetry, which promotes good grades in school.
- Research shows the right snacks can aid in lowering cholesterol levels in maintaining your weight.
- Eating small amounts four or five times a day is more beneficial than three meals for many people.
- You can find smart snack choices in vending machines.
- Choose cereal bars or granola bars with little protein (check the Nutrition Facts) and some fiber to keep you full longer.
- Pretzels or baked chips are a great low-fat, low calorie way to satisfy the mid-day munchies
- Choose fruits, vegetables, and salads, prepackaged and ready-to-eat. They are high on nutrition, crunchy, convenient, and great tasting.
- Animal crackers, fig bars, ginger snaps, or graham crackers are great tasting low fat choices.
- For a snack that is high in protein and calcium reach for a carton of low-fat milk or yogurt.
- Choose a package of peanuts, almonds, or other favorite nuts. They're packed with protein and fiber.
- It's unrealistic to give up sweet treats if you really enjoy them. Like anything else, eat them "smartly" and in monderation.
