Vending Machines – A Controlled, Safe Method to Provide Food and Beverages to Consumers
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Part II – What Products Are Recommended to Safely Clean and Disinfect Vending Equipment?
Previously, we delved into why vending is the ultimate solution in the convenience services industry in Part I. Part II of our four-part series will provide guidance on finding the right cleaning agent to keep your vending equipment disinfected and safe for your customers to use.
As communicated by the European Vending Association, even with the secured product control offered by vending, it is extremely important to clean and disinfect vending equipment often, especially considering the current health crisis due to COVID-19. Fortunately, the cleaning and disinfecting process for vending equipment is easy and cost-effective. All components on vending equipment, including electronics, keypads, plastic surfaces, and glass surfaces, can be effectively cleaned and disinfected with warm, mild soapy water.
Why is soap so effective against bacteria and viruses, such as the Coronavirus? Soap is comprised of two-sided molecules. One side is attracted to water; the other side is attracted to fat. Viruses, such as the Coronavirus, are comprised of material surrounded by a coating of proteins and fat. When viruses interact with soap, the soap molecules rip that fat coating out. Soap literally demolishes viruses in as little as 20 seconds. To learn more about why soap is Selectivend’s preferred cleaning and disinfectant agent, check out National Geographic’s article Why soap is preferable to bleach in the fight against the coronavirus.
There are commercial-grade cleaning and disinfectant options such as Kay 5 Chlorinating Sanitizer, which is highly effective against bacteria and fungus, and is used primarily for kitchen equipment, soft serve and shake machines and kitchen utensils. Another option is PURELL® Foodservice Surface Sanitizer, an EPA registered multi-surface sanitizer/disinfectant approved for use on food-contact surfaces with no-rinse required and is currently registered in all 50 states.
If you choose to use a commercial-grade product, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Never mix these products with ammonia or any other cleanser. Also, check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Expired products will likely not be as effective against coronaviruses. You can view all EPA approved disinfectants against SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes the disease COVID-19 HERE.
For more information on best practices to sanitize your vending equipment or other equipment questions, please contact Selectivend at 1 866-939-5947.
How should you go about cleaning your vending machine? Check back later to find out in Part III.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is vending profitable?
In the Vending Times Industry Census, United States vending consumers deposited over 46 Billion Dollars into vending machines. Over $23 Billion were cold beverage sales and $10 Billion were snacks, confections and pastry sales. This trend has been increasing which promises industry growth.
How do I start my vending business?
Start slowly! Vending isn’t a get rich quick business. Money can be made but it takes time and commitment. As a vending operator, servicing locations is important for business growth. Don’t buy vending machines before you establish locations. If locations don’t have vending already, there may be a reason; vending cash flow issues or can’t find vendor operator to fill them. Be conscious and ask questions.Start with one or two vending machines per location. Evaluate machines needed on location by customer/employee count; let machine work for you. This will gain you experience along with comfort in the business. Add locations & equipment when you feel ready.
How can I find vending locations?
Everyone either has or knows someone who owns a business in need of vending services. Word of mouth/self promotion is a primary location finding method. Often people are unhappy with their current vendor but don’t know where to find new vending operators.
Where do I get product for my vending machine?
Your local wholesale clubs sell a large variety of popular vending products. Vending products can be purchased through local grocery stores. Vending products are also available through vending supply distributors.
What if my vending machine needs repair?
Most vending related issues can be resolved over the phone by vending specialist. Call (800) 833-4411 or visit www.vendnetusa.com to receive FREE support.
Vending specialist from our service network can be recommended to assist you, if the issue needs specialized service.
What type of vending machines should I purchase?
Locations typically need both snack/drink vending machines. Vending equipment purchased should reflect the location size, daily traffic etc.Ask these questions to determine location need:
- Does location currently have soda/snack vending machines?
- How many employees/customer have vending machine access?
- What is the width of location doors?
- Will vending equipment fit through these doors?
- Does location have stairs?
These questions will help you determine location equipment.
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