Shanghai reins in vending machines for fresh food

[Photo: from VCG]

Shanghai's food safety authority is consulting experts about regulations to standardize the operation of vending machines for ready-to-eat food.

The machines have become common in the city, thanks in part to the advent of mobile payment systems and advances in artificial intelligence technology.

The regulations, which are being drafted by the Shanghai Food and Drug Administration, cover vending machines that dispense fresh food and beverages, such as orange juice, coffee, coconut juice, noodles and even hairy crabs.

Popular among white-collar workers because of their convenience, the machines are not covered under current regulations.

After carrying out risk assessments on multiple vending machines last week, experts said standardization of their design and operation are imperative, including microbial contamination control, sterilization and cleaning. 

The audio clip is from Studio+, produced by CRI.