Monday, December 8, 2014

Advantages And Disadvantages Of School Meal Vending Machines

By Claudine Hodges


Everything that is good has its own set of bad. There is nothing perfect. If the latest car and phone models are not perfect. This is exactly why they are constantly on the upgrade mode. In terms of taking care of our health, factoring our habits in the equation is necessary in knowing whether or not we are healthy enough.

For students, food is even more important considering that they use a lot of their energy in studying and playing. This is why school meal vending machines are provided inside the premises of different campuses. But while the aim is to provide the right nutrition for our kids, there are some issues that make this equipment a disadvantage. Today we will talk about three pros and cons that this has machine has.

First, vending machines are good because they provide convenience. Students who are in a hurry may find it difficult to go to the school cafeteria just to grab something to eat. With these units scattered around the corners of the campus, they can easily fill their stomach up without going through those long lines in the canteen.

But while this is indeed convenient, it has also encouraged students to be too lazy to find something more healthy to eat. Remember that foods on these machines are not fresh as the ones you get when you go to the canteen or shops outside the campus. Also, there are only limited choices found here which can limit the amount of nutrients that their body needs to sustain their activities for the whole day.

Another good thing is its safety. There are some students who are very critical about the foods that they eat. There is nothing wrong with being critical if it is about safety. In fact, it is encouraged. Vending machines are first approved by the school before they are allowed to operate. Meaning safety and sanitation procedures are taken.

The disadvantage comes in the variety of foods inside these units. You cannot find a fresh cooked goods in there. They are all stored for quite some time. Baked goods and sodas are among the top picsk. Both are rich in sugar which are not good especially when consumed at high levels.

Then we have this benefit of fast and affordable service. For students who have a lot of things to do, going for something that is affordable and at the same time less expensive is a better choice. If it is to satiate your hunger, then vending machine products will do.

Bad thing is, their products have lower nutritional value compared to the breakfast and lunch programs available on federal schools. It is also contrary to the nutrition education that the students learn at school. When they are taught of the right food combinations to eat, but are exposed to foods which are not giving them the benefit that they deserve, the things that they learn may be set aside.

At present, this service is widespread and is accepted by many institutions. While many will vote for its removal, it will not be that easy when a lot of students and workers are using it. Your challenge will always be to be mindful of what you eat and strive to consume a balanced meal everyday.




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