The Chicago startup that’s giving vending machines a healthy twist

Despite traditional stereotypes of vending machines crammed with sugary snacks and drinks, one startup sees potential in these self-service machines as a source of good nutrition. Farmer’s Fridge is a Chicago based startup that sells healthy food using vending machines. The young startup now has ambitions to move into the Milwaukee market, rolling out a total of seven new machines, which will slowly be integrated into the city between October 3 – 14. The company, which was founded in 2013, sells a selection of breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks through its machines. Luke Sanders, the CEO and founder of Farmer’s Fridge, claims the inspiration behind the company is to make fresh, nutritious food more accessible than a candy bar. Earlier this year, Sanders explained the company’s goals, stating “Setting the number at 200 (new locations) is ambitious. I think we can do it. But the ultimate goal is to be a successful company.” Sanders was featured on FOX news to talk about the company’s offering. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cajqKLNcaNI All dishes on the menu have been created and designed by a trained chef and dietitian to ensure a healthy offering. Real food with produce cut by hand makes up each healthy meal the company provides and nutritional information can be found on the company’s website, with prices for the salads and meals ranging from $4 to $12. While this might be above the usual price of a candy bar or bag of chips, there could be serious potential with these products considering America’s growing appetite for healthy food. For example, despite heavy price tags attached to organic food, customers still prefer to fill their baskets with this produce. This change in lifestyle and attitude has also been highlighted as a reason for many fast food chains, such as McDonald’s, that are experiencing a decline in profits. If this market shift continues, Farmer’s Fridge could be well ahead of the curve, establishing themselves as a convenient and healthy option for our modern health-conscious American.