UF’s vending machines will still look the same, but many of the products inside them might look and taste a little different when one corporation makes big changes.
PepsiCo Inc., which includes such product names as Pepsi, Frito-Lay, Gatorade and Tropicana, is altering some of its products to make them healthier, according to the company’s Web site.
The company plans to reduce saturated fat, sodium and sugars and add whole grains, fiber, fruit, vegetables and key vitamins and minerals to its products.
Pepsi is also targeting the school system by eliminating full-calorie beverages and offering healthier choices, including water, sports drinks, juices and no- or low-calorie drinks, according to the Web site.
Robin Zukowski, a personal trainer and weight loss coach at Gainesville Health and Fitness Center, believes the changes made to Pepsi products are the result of people demanding it.
“I think now is one of the first times there is an awareness about it,” Zukowski said. “As cancer and obesity increase, it is a time everyone is concerned about what they are eating and feeding their children.”
Janis Mena, registered dietician at the Student Health Care Center, said Pepsi’s change could help lead America to solving its obesity problem.
“It’s a step in the right direction,” Mena said.
About 60 percent of Americans are overweight or obese, and in Alachua County, one in three children are obese, she said.
“Education is important for behavioral change,” Mena added.
It is important to reinforce healthy eating and to promote education about food choices, but restricting certain foods won’t solve the problem, she warned.
“People just need to be aware,” Mena said.
