EDIT: Vending machines tell all

Beginning in 2013, vending machines in Chicago and San Antonio municipal buildings will display the number of calories in popular sugary drinks, according to an article in TIME Monday.

In addition to the front-facing calorie counts, the machines will supply more, low-calorie drinks along with messages such as “Try a Low-Calorie Beverage,” according to TIME.

To put things into perspective, “a 12-ounce can of regular soda typically has about 140 calories and 40 grams of high-fructose corn syrup,” TIME reported.

It’s admirable that the American Beverage Association has agreed to roll out these new machines, especially considering that frequent soda consumption can lead to obesity, diabetes and other health issues.

Some consumers may be deterred from purchasing those beverages from a vending machine if that information is more clearly displayed.

Of course, some consumers might find the new machines insulting. Many consumers, after all, are likely aware of the negative effects of frequent soda consumption. While it’s understandable that no consumer wants to be viewed as a mindless drone, what’s the harm in reminding someone to choose low-calorie drinks? There is none.

It is also important to remember that not everyone is educated about the adverse effects of soda and other sugary beverages. Parents don’t always impart that information on their children. Schools and other institutions may not relay that information to them either.

These new machines will provide children and adults with the information they need to make healthier eating decisions.

It will be interesting to see whether or not the front-facing calorie counts will expand to other non-liquid products. Why limit that effort to beverages? Aside from high-calorie drinks, vending machines supply high-calorie food items. Consumers should be provided with as much information as possible before making those purchases.