By J1 Reporter Syra Qureshi

Vending machines are typically in every school, but something about Marian’s girls’ captivation for vending machines is like no other. From grabbing breakfast, to a quick snack after school, the vending machines attract students from every grade. 

After taking a quick informal survey, the most popular item in the vending machines seems to be Pop-Tarts. Although, Kit-Kats, Peanut M&M’s and powdered donuts all appear to be fan favorites, too. When asked about what savory snacks needed to be restocked the most last year, sophomore Ava Ellis said, “Munchies, Takis, and Flaming Hot Cheetos.” 

Different student organizations share the task of restocking the machines. Assistant Athletic Director, Coach Jake Moore purchases the items for the vending machines and the concessions stand and then organizations can earn funds for helping with the task of re-stocking. For example, Future Business Leaders of America (F.B.L.A.) has the task of restocking in late October.

Aside from just grabbing a snack, five out of 20 students informally surveyed have even skipped getting school lunch to eat from vending machines. “I have gotten popcorn instead of lunch because it was easier than waiting in line,” sophomore Bella Hobbs said. 

But, vending machines at Marian are not like the typical vending machines in a public school. In 2013, rules for public school snack regulations were updated for the first time since the 1970’s. One included trans fats being banned from the machines. Because Marian is a private school though, snacks like Pop-Tarts, which contain trans fat, are allowed. Some private schools may choose to follow similar health guidelines to public schools, but public schools are subject to federal regulations. 

Because private schools have access to a wider variety of unhealthy vending snacks, health concerns may be brought up. High calorie and nutrient poor options such as sugary drinks and processed snacks can promote unhealthy eating habits. Students have to learn how to monitor their choices and their outcome.

On the contrary, there are multiple advantages to having vending machines in schools, including convenience. ”If I’m in study hall in the quad, and I’m hungry, I can just go get chips or a coke. It’s very convenient and tasty,” junior Maeve Filipi said. Along with this, vending machines allow students to satisfy their hunger during a long school day, especially if they have to stay after school.

Satisfying these cravings may end up costing the student a surprising amount of money in the long run. Pop-tarts cost $1 a pack and Kit Kats or a small bag of Peanut M&M’s are $2. Informally polling students about their average weekly vending machine allowance shows a range of nothing to $10.

Although vending machines have a debatable reputation, there is no doubt that vending machines in the Quad are one of the most popular spots on campus.