Vending Restrictions Passed Yesterday In Suffolk County, NY, Prompt Reaction From NAMA
(CHICAGO) July 30, 2014 – NAMA expressed concern about a local law passed yesterday to establish healthy food standards at Suffolk County, NY facilities.
“NAMA’s Government Affairs division was in contact with the sponsoring legislator, Kara Hahn, asking for time to meet before the vote,” said Eric Dell, NAMA’s SVP, GA. “However, the vote went forward on restrictions on vended product sales with language that makes compliance very difficult, if not impossible.”
The restrictions apply to all County contracts for food and beverages at concession stands, cafeterias or by vending machines on property owned by the County of Suffolk. The resolution also includes a provision requiring caloric information for each item based on the size of the package for sale. The language does not stipulate how this information would be provided by the operator or enforced by the municipality.
“The industry has worked in a constructive way to find solutions for healthy choices in vending in other states and municipalities and through NAMA’s FitPick nutrition program,” Dell continued. ”We would still welcome the opportunity to work with Suffolk County on the implementation and enforcement of this new law.”
In an effort to continue to work together, NAMA is partnering with other food and beverage industry leaders impacted by this local law to pursue further discussions with Suffolk County leaders.
Founded in 1936, NAMA is the association representing the $42 billion U.S. vending and refreshment service industry. With more than 1800 member companies – including many of the world’s most recognized brands – NAMA provides advocacy, education and research for its membership. Visit NAMA on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.