FDA Issues New Regulations for Vending Industry
Finalized rules will usher in new era for the $19 Billion Automated Retailing Market
CORONA, Calif., Dec. 1, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- AVT, Inc. (OTC Markets: AVTC) (www.autoretail.com), a manufacturer of high performance automated retailing systems and technology-infused vending machines, announced that they have a deep portfolio of products and solutions that already meet the new requirements established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
As reported in Vending Times and other publications, the long-awaited calorie-disclosure rules for food and beverages sold through vending machines have been finalized by the FDA.
The vending machine rule requires operators who own or operate 20 or more vending machines to disclose calorie information for food sold from vending machines. Owners of vending machines must post calorie information for each item inside the machines on nearby placards, posters or on digital displays.
"We are seeing the ushering in of a new era of vending," said Shannon Illingworth, Founder and Chairman of AVT, Inc. "Consumers have demanded a change, and we have responded by providing new technologies that empower and inform."
AVT has developed proprietary software and a series of unique touchscreen interfaces that provide consumers with complete nutritional information, as well as the options to play games, read news, receive coupons and special offers, and enjoy free WiFi.
AVT's patent on wireless connectivity of vending machines will also play an important role in the phase-in of new, FDA-compliant systems. "The FDA regulation is specifically targeting owners of multiple machines," said James Winsor, CEO of AVT. "Our patented technologies enable owners and operators of vending machines to receive real-time information on all of their units, including sales reports, status updates, inventory alerts, and highly detailed and customizable data."
"Americans eat and drink about one-third of their calories away from home and people today expect clear information about the products they consume," said FDA Commissioner Margaret A. Hamburg, M.D. "Making calorie information available is an important step for public health that will help consumers make informed choices for themselves and their families."
To find out how AVT can help vending operators come into compliance, or for details on AVT's new line of FDA-compliant vending systems, please call (877) 424-3663, or visit: www.autoretail.com.
