Healthy options around the clock

Pulling an ‘all-nighter’ to finish an assignment or just studying late into the night has long been synonymous with junk food, but fresh brain food is now available around the clock at the University of Queensland’s St Lucia campus.

An All Real Food vending machine, serving salads, and three Fruitbar vending machines, offering fresh fruit and other snacks, are now giving staff and students healthy options 24/7.

UQ Wellness Program manager Vicki McNabb said good nutrition was vital for brain function.

“If students are eating unhealthy food their brains are not going to function as well, especially if they’re burning the midnight oil,” she said.

“Previously the only option would be a fast-food run, but now students can recharge with fruit, vegetables and lean proteins.”

The All Real Food vending machine, in the 24-hour student room, is restocked with fresh local produce daily and the unsold items are donated to local food banks.

Nutritional information is provided with each meal so consumers know what they’re eating or can choose meals that fit their dietary requirements.

Fresh fruit and healthy snacks are also available 24/7 from three The Fruitbar vending machines, located in the Student Union Complex, the Social Sciences and Humanities Library and the Biological Sciences Library.

The refrigerated machines offer seasonal fresh fruit from Australian producers, as well as other healthy snacks like yoghurt. 

“Fresh fruit is a great source for a natural energy kick,” Ms McNabb said.

"A perfect way to kick a bout of lethargy and support Australian farmers."

Media: Vicki Mcnabb, v.mcnabb@uq.edu.au, +61 7 3365 1516; UQ Communications, Casey Fung, c.fung@uq.edu.au, +61 7 3346 7887.