In 2008, a study from Temple University's Center for Obesity Research and Education, which sampled schools nationwide, found that 75 percent of middle schools had juice vending machines.
According the study, those drinks tended to contain upwards of 320 calories. Calorie- and health-conscious parents and lawmakers who argue the sugary drinks contribute to childhood obesity have hit the use of the sugary drinks hard. Many school have been forced to shut down the machines, or to keep them off during school hours.
Because of impending legislation, companies are marketing a new style of "healthy" vending machines filled with fresh fruits and 100 percent juices, among other items.
Despite the fact that many machines offer 100 percent juice options, researchers argue children should not consume the drinks daily. "Contrary to common belief, fruit juice is not a healthy snack, if drunk in excess. It should be limited to about 6 oz. per day, but it's common to see more than one serving in a bottle," said Amy Virus, senior health services coordinator for the Temple study.