Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc is readying the launch of a new range of vending machines containing fresh produce, in a bid to tap into demand for healthier food options.

The US-based fresh produce multinational announced that it had agreed a deal with Vistar Corp to distribute fresh produce including table grapes, whole bananas, pineapple chunks, apple slices, baby carrots, celery sticks and grape tomatoes in vending machines.

'Vistar's industry expertise, experience and nationwide presence will help us accomplish our goal of providing healthier snack alternatives in vending machines throughout the country,' said Del Monte's Dennis Christou. 'Together, we are committed to fighting the American obesity epidemic and we are convinced providing fresh fruits and vegetables in vending machines is a great start.'

Vistar's vice-president of sales and marketing Terry Touchton said that the deal would open a new chapter in healthy vending in the US, with specially designed packaging appealing to a variety of customers searching for fast and healthy snack options.

'We are continually looking for product innovations and the opportunity to partne with such an iconic brand as Del Monte is something that we are all very excited about,' he added.

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