Healthy drinks in a vending machine might seem like an oxymoron. After all, vending machines have traditionally been stocked with sugary sodas. But tastes have changed. People are more conscious of what types of foods and drinks they put into their bodies. Low-sugar options are high on their list. The good news is that those big soda brands do provide a variety of healthier beverage options.
We're not talking items that are marketed as 'healthy' but still contain similar (if not more!) amounts of sugar as what's in a can of soda. We mean beverages that are actually healthy.
If you're seeking healthy drinks to put in your vending machine, here are six products to consider.
1. Honest Tea (Unsweetened)
A Coca-Cola product, Honest Tea has a variety of flavors to choose from. But be careful: the sweetened versions do have added sugars and are not likely to be considered a healthy drink.
2. Dasani Sparkling
Looking for that carbonation without the extra sugars? Dasani Sparkling makes for the perfect alternative. 0 calories and 0 added sugars means a refreshing, healthy beverage to pair with your meal.
3. Bubly
Bubly is Pepsi's answer to the growing demand for calorie- and sugar-free alternatives to soda due to the enormous popularity and success of sparkling water giant La Croix.
4. Vitamin Water Zero
Vitamin Water is another Coca-Cola brand that has had considerable success. While the original has a good deal of added sugars, Vitamin Water Zero is a much healthier drink to stock in your vending machine. It has no artificial sweeteners. Truvia and fructose--a natural fruit sugar--keeps it just sweet enough to be tasty.
5. SoBe Water
SoBe Water (previously known as SoBe Life Water) is Pepsi's version of vitamin infused drinks and makes for a good healthy drink.
6. Bottled Water
There are many reasons to stock water in your vending machines, the least of which is it's the ultimate healthy drink.
Frequently Asked Questions About Healthy Drinks
What makes a drink healthy for vending machines?
A healthy drink for vending machines is one that contains little to no added sugars, has low or zero calories, and avoids artificial sweeteners. These drinks provide hydration without the negative effects of sugary sodas.
Which healthy drinks are recommended for vending machines?
Six healthy drinks recommended for vending machines include Honest Tea (unsweetened), Dasani Sparkling, Bubly, Vitamin Water Zero, SoBe Water, and bottled water. These options offer hydration with minimal sugars and calories.
Why should I avoid sweetened versions of Honest Tea?
Sweetened versions of Honest Tea contain added sugars, which reduce their health benefits. To keep vending machine options truly healthy, it is best to stock the unsweetened varieties.
How is Dasani Sparkling a healthy alternative to soda?
Dasani Sparkling contains zero calories and zero added sugars, making it a refreshing and healthy carbonated beverage option without the extra sugars found in traditional sodas.
What is special about Vitamin Water Zero compared to the original?
Vitamin Water Zero has no artificial sweeteners and uses natural sweeteners like Truvia and fructose, making it a healthier choice than the original Vitamin Water, which contains a significant amount of added sugars.
Why is bottled water considered the ultimate healthy drink for vending machines?
Bottled water is considered the ultimate healthy drink because it provides pure hydration without any sugars, calories, or additives. It is a simple and effective way to keep customers hydrated and healthy.
