There are many benefits to getting vending services for your business. Chief among them: the convenience for you and your employees to grab a beverage or quick snack. But it can be tough for those who are more health-minded to find something nutritious in a vending machine.
Healthy Vending Options When You're Strapped for Time
We all know that some days at work are hectic, leaving you with hardly anytime for a healthy meal. Your stomach rumbles while deadlines rapidly approach. Despite your greatest efforts, you end up settling for a snack from the vending machine. Sometimes it's just what you have to do. If you find yourself in this situation, here are a few healthier options that vending machines can offer.
5 Healthier Vending Machine Snacks
1. Peanuts
Perhaps the best choice when it comes to a vending machine snack, peanuts heave many health benefits. TheyÛªre full of monounsaturated fats, which are good for the heart. Peanuts are also a good source of protein and will provide longer-lasting energy than a candy bar or bag of chips.
2. Granola Bars
Despite having higher amounts of sugar than other items on this list, granola bars are typically a good source of whole grain oats and nuts. The oats are rich in fiber and the nuts pack a nice punch of protein. Plus, most granola bars have less than 200 calories.
3. Pretzels
While pretzels arenÛªt necessarily healthy, they do provide a low-fat snack compared to most other vending machine options. Since theyÛªre also low in protein, wash them down with a bottle of water as opposed to a soft drink to avoid a sugar rush.
4. Sunflower Seeds
Looking for a healthy alternative from a vending machine? Try a pack of sunflower seeds. TheyÛªre an excellent source of Vitamin E, an important antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. As with regular nuts, go for the unsalted option if itÛªs available.
5. Fig Newtons
A healthier option for those with a sweet tooth, Fig Newtons are a better choice over regular cookies or candy since they contain some real fruit. Figs are high in fiber, which helps control your blood-sugar.
While nothing beats fresh fruits and vegetables for a healthy snack, the items listed above provide a better alternative to candy bars and potato chips. If you find yourself crunched for time, try one of these healthier options to keep you going. If you donÛªt have any of these as an option in your vending machine, talk to your vending provider about replacing some existing selections.
Frequently Asked Questions About Healthy Vending Machine Snacks
What are some healthy snack options available in vending machines?
Some healthy vending machine snacks include peanuts, granola bars, pretzels, sunflower seeds, and Fig Newtons. These options provide better nutrition compared to typical candy bars or chips.
Why are peanuts considered a good vending machine snack?
Peanuts are full of monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health. They also provide protein and longer-lasting energy than candy bars or chips.
Are granola bars a healthy choice from vending machines?
Granola bars are generally a good source of whole grain oats and nuts, offering fiber and protein. Although they may contain some sugar, most have less than 200 calories, making them a reasonable option.
How do pretzels compare as a vending machine snack?
Pretzels are a low-fat snack compared to many vending machine options, but they are low in protein. It is recommended to drink water with pretzels instead of sugary drinks to avoid a sugar rush.
What nutritional benefits do sunflower seeds offer?
Sunflower seeds are an excellent source of Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Choosing unsalted sunflower seeds is preferable for a healthier option.
Why might Fig Newtons be a better sweet snack choice?
Fig Newtons contain real fruit and are high in fiber, which helps control blood sugar. They are a healthier alternative to regular cookies or candy.
What should I do if my vending machine doesn’t have healthy snack options?
If your vending machine lacks healthy options, you can talk to your vending provider about replacing some existing selections with healthier snacks like those mentioned.
