The Mid-America Auotmatic Merchandising Assocation (MAMA) adopted a new Kansas policy regarding vending in schools. MAMA's Kansas policy regarding vending in schools will be to "remove all products that are classified as minimal nutritional value foods (as defined by the USDA) from vending machines in Kansas schools and will work to implement a program centered on healthy vending choices."

In discussing the new policy MAMA President, John Mitchell, Jr. said "Our members are committed to delivering healthy foods and snacks through this program. We're proud to launch this initiative as an industry in cooperation with schools to meet the needs of students of all ages." In addition to this new Policy, MAMA's national association NAMA has an ongoing program called "Balanced for Life" that promotes nutrition, exercise and education for school children, parents of all ages. For more information go to : http://www.balancedforlife.net

Rep. Jason Watkins, R-Wichita, has been active in encouraging development of programs like the one announced today. "Providing healthy choices through vending machines at schools is a vital part of an overall strategy of improving the health and fitness of our Kansas School kids."

The Mid-America Automatic Merchandising Association (MAMA) is a multi-state (Missouri and Kansas) trade organization of automatic merchandisers related professionals committed to vending excellence through its representation of the merchandise vending industry. Its members include service companies, vending machine manufacturers and suppliers of vendible products, component parts and support services.