Healthy Vending Machine Policy

The Board of Supervisors took a stand recently in support of health for Contra Costa County employees and residents who visit our facilities. They adopted a policy December 14 that requires food and beverages offered in vending machines located on county owned, operated or leased properties (regardless of who owns or stocks the machines) to meet specified nutrition standards. In short, these standards require that half of all food items offered be low in fat, saturated fat, and trans fat with the exception of nuts and seeds, and be low in added sugar. For beverage items, at least half must be water, reduced fat milk, 100% fruit or vegetable juice, or drinks with non-caloric sweeteners.

Does this mean that you'll no longer see Snickers^TM, Cheetos^TM or cola in your favorite snack machine? Not necessarily. What it does mean is that you won't have to go far to get a healthier snack item like peanuts or almonds, granola bars, dried fruit, fruit juice, low-fat popcorn and other healthier fare. With the high rates of obesity and diabetes right here in Contra Costa County, making healthier options available is an important step toward a healthier community. Over the next few months, you can look forward to seeing healthier items in vending machines.

For more information, contact Andrea Menefee at amenefe@hsd.cccounty.us.

Read the complete policy

Content provided by the Nutrition, Physical Activity and Food Security Project under The Community Wellness & Prevention Program of Contra Costa Health Services.