Healthy Vending

Fishing for a Healthy Snack? Healthy Vending Choices are Here!

A recent survey showed that County employees frequently buy from vending machines, but many do not like the snack options and want to see healthier products. As a result, Wellness Works in Howard County and the Health Department partnered to create a Healthy Vending policy.

• According to the policy, at least 25% of the food and drinks in our vending machines will meet certain healthy nutrition criteria. This means more options and better availability of healthy snacks. Plus, healthy snacking can help improve overall health, curb cravings, fight weight gain, boost brain power, and give you energy!
• To review the requirements for the healthy food and drinks available in our vending machines, click here for the Vending Policy. These requirements were developed based on standards from the Institute of Medicine, as well as best practices from other organizations with a healthy vending policy.
• If you do not see healthy options available in your vending machines, talk with the person in your office or department responsible for coordinating with the vendor. For a list of the contacts, click here.

For more information on the Healthy Vending policy, please send an email to healthyworkplaces@howardcountymd.gov.