This study used an observational research design to determine if providing nutrition information on a university vending machine would affect snack sales. Labels were placed on snacks indicating whether they were healthy (green), unhealthy (red), or moderately healthy (yellow). The hypothesis was that the intervention would increase healthy snack sales and decrease unhealthy snack sales. However, the study had limitations, including some healthy snacks like nuts receiving red labels, and a small sample size from only one university. More research on multiple campuses is still needed to better understand how nutrition information and university events may impact vending machine sales.

1. Research Limitations
Cori Hilbourn
Research Methods
The Effects of a Nutrition Education
Intervention on Vending Machine Sales
on a University Campus

2. Study Design
• Observational Research Design
• Unobtrusive
– Individuals are unaware their sales are being watched

3. Purpose of the Study
• Determine if nutrition information on a vending
machine would affect sales
• Using a sign outside of the vending machine, as
well as red, yellow, green labels

4. Hypothesis
• Intervention on vending machines would increase
healthy snack sales and decrease unhealthy snack
sales

5. Limitations and Bias
• Snack receiving red labels, such as nuts even
though they are not unhealthy
• More studies need to be done to determine if
university events affect sales
• Studies need to be done on multiple campuses
• Sample size was small
• Universities would be scared of loss of revenue

6. References
Brown, M.V., Flint, M, and Fuqua, J. (2014, October).
The effects of a nutrition education intervention on
vending machine sales on a university
campus. Journal of American College Health, 62(7),
512-516. Retrieved
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