Salad Vending Machines Encounter A Basic Problem: Some People Hate Salad

A 28-year-old Chicago-based entrepreneur is betting his future on a belief that if people could find fresh, delicious, convenient – and yes, healthy – food, they would spend money like there was no tomorrow. Luke Saunders’ vending kiosks are designed to deliver on that belief. For seven dollars and up, customers can buy fresh salads made from a variety of healthful ingredients, including blueberries, kale, fennel and pineapple, all delivered in layers in plastic canning-style jars. The Farmer’s Fridge machines are placed where there is a dearth of salad restaurants – in private office buildings, food courts, and convenience stores. They offer more healthful fast foods than McDonald’s or Wendy’s. But in his short experience testing the kiosks, Saunders has encountered one frustrating fact: some people just won’t eat anything but “the usual” -- burgers, pizza, chicken, etc.