To compare the nutritional quality of the displayed items in vending machines to the displays in stores with the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) [21], the Nutrient Profiling Scoring Criterion FSANZ model was used. This is a scoring model; foods receive positive and negative points for energy, key nutrients and constituents, and there are different (sum) score thresholds for three types of products (beverages, foods and fats and cheese with high calcium content). For this study, foods that did not pass the FSANZ criterion were considered as less healthy. A similar approach was used in a recent assessment of the nutritional quality of foods available in Slovenian food supplies [22] and in vending machines in health and social care institutions in Slovenia [26].

Statistics

Descriptive statistics expressed as averages with standard deviation (SD) or percentages were used in data analysis. Additionally, percentages of beverages categorised with dietary traffic light labelling were shown, which served as overall quality indicator of the displays in hospitals, community health centres and nursing homes.

Illuminating Choices: Criteria for Light Labelling in Vending Machines

Criteria for Light Labelling in Vending Machines: In the age of wellness consciousness and informed consumer choices, the criteria for light labeling in vending machines play a pivotal role in guiding individuals towards healthier options. As vending machines become an integral part of our daily lives, from office spaces to public areas, shedding light on the nutritional content of available products becomes paramount.

Caloric Transparency: The first and foremost criterion for light labeling in vending machines is caloric transparency. Each product’s calorie content should be clearly displayed, providing consumers with an instant understanding of the energy they are about to consume. This information empowers individuals to make mindful choices, aligning their snack or beverage selection with their dietary goals.

Sugar and Fat Content Disclosure: Beyond calories, the sugar and fat content of vending machine offerings are critical elements for light labeling. High sugar and fat intake has been linked to various health concerns, and consumers deserve to know the nutritional composition of the products they are purchasing. Clear and concise information on sugar and fat content enables individuals to manage their intake, fostering a healthier lifestyle.

Portion Size Clarity: Understanding portion sizes is crucial for maintaining a balanced diet. Criteria for light labeling should include clear indications of portion sizes for each product in vending machines. This helps consumers gauge the appropriateness of their serving, preventing unintentional overconsumption and promoting portion control.

Nutrient-Rich Options Highlight: Light labeling criteria should actively highlight nutrient-rich options within vending machines. Products rich in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients should be visibly labeled, guiding consumers towards choices that contribute positively to their overall health. This emphasis on nutrient density encourages a shift towards more nourishing snacks and beverages.

Allergen Information Inclusion: For individuals with allergies or dietary restrictions, knowing the allergen information of vending machine products is vital. Criteria for light labeling should mandate the inclusion of allergen information, ensuring that consumers can make choices that align with their health needs and preferences.

Interactive Digital Displays: Embracing technology, vending machines equipped with interactive digital displays can revolutionize light labeling. Touchscreen displays can provide detailed nutritional information, allowing consumers to explore and compare products before making a selection. This interactive approach enhances the overall vending experience, promoting well-informed choices.

Color-Coding for Quick Recognition: Implementing color-coded labels based on nutritional criteria is a visually effective method for conveying information. This approach allows consumers to quickly recognize healthier options, simplifying the decision-making process. Green labels for low-calorie and nutrient-dense choices, for instance, provide instant visual cues for health-conscious individuals.

Regular Review and Updating: To ensure relevance and accuracy, the criteria for light labeling in vending machines should include provisions for regular review and updating. As new products enter the market and nutritional guidelines evolve, vending machine operators must stay proactive in ensuring that the displayed information remains current and aligned with the latest health standards.

Educational Signage: Incorporating educational signage in proximity to vending machines contributes to the overall criteria for light labeling. These signs can offer tips on making healthier choices, explain nutritional terms, and promote an understanding of balanced nutrition. Education empowers consumers to make informed decisions beyond what is displayed on the product label.

Incentivizing Healthier Choices: To encourage healthier choices, vending machines can implement incentive programs tied to light labeling. Discounts, rewards, or loyalty points for selecting products with lower calorie or sugar content create a positive reinforcement loop, motivating individuals to prioritize their health when using vending machines.

In conclusion, establishing comprehensive criteria for light labeling in vending machines is an essential step towards fostering a culture of wellness and informed choices. By providing clear information on calories, sugar, fat, portion sizes, and nutrient density, vending machines become allies in supporting individuals’ health goals, contributing to a healthier and more conscious society.