San Francisco Supervisor Proposes Legislation Regulating Items In City Vending Machines

SAN FRANCISCO -- Legislation introduced on Jan. 13 by San Francisco Supervisor Mark Farrell would require food sold in vending machines on city property to meet stern nutritional standards.

Under the proposed legislation, vending machines on city property could offer drinks including water, juice, low-fat milk or milk substitutes, diet sodas and unsweetened coffee or tea. Food items would need to be less than 200 calories per serving and low in fat and sugar. Candy and regular chips would be prohibited.

"San Francisco government should lead by example, and this policy solidifies our city's commitment to encouraging healthier lifestyles by making healthy choices more readily available," Farrell said. "Healthier employees are more productive employees, and lead to incredible cost-savings for taxpayers."

Backed by the American Heart Association, the legislation is being described as among the most stringent in the country.

Farrell said the new policy, if approved, would take effect as soon as each vending machine contract comes up for renewal or is amended.

The proposed legislation also calls for "healthier" food to be offered at city meetings and events, and encourages restaurants and concessions on city property to offer meals that contain less than 700 calories and derive 35% or less of their calories from fat.