Shanghai reins in vending machines for fresh food

Shanghai's food safety authority is consulting experts about regulations to standardize the operation of vending machines for ready-to-eat food.

The machines have become common in the city, thanks in part to the advent of mobile payment systems and advances in artificial intelligence technology.

The regulations, which are being drafted by the Shanghai Food and Drug Administration, cover vending machines that dispense fresh food and beverages, such as orange juice, coffee, coconut juice, noodles and even hairy crabs.