Soft Drink Vending Machines in Schools

Abstract

This paper examines the availability of soft drinks in schools ("pouring rights contracts") and its effects on the growing nutritional problems of American youth. Of special concern is the prevalence of overweight youth, which has been increasing at alarming rates. There has been a direct relationship found between soft drink consumption and overweight in youth. Soft drinks account for as much as 20% to 24% of the calories consumed by youth. Higher rates of soft drink consumption are seen in youth from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. School administrators play a negative role in the health of students when they allow commercialism (advertising and selling of products to students) in their schools. Soft drink companies have been at the forefront of commercialism in schools. These "pouring rights contracts" have helped encourage student addictions to high-calorie soft drinks, while at the same time making school administrators accustomed to the financial gains. Yet, many school administrators do not perceive pouring rights contracts as jeopardizing the health of students. Banning the sale of soft drinks on school campuses must be a higher priority for those concerned about the health of youth.