Drinking morning coffee is a sacred ritual for many—a calm moment to charge before we start our day.

What if something unseen to the naked eye could threaten a cherished routine?

It's a thought that might make your skin crawl, but it's a reality—especially for vending machines.


The Hidden Dangers of Vending Machines

Vending machines—a beacon of convenience for fast-paced lives—could harbour a dark secret.

Recently, a 21-year-old woman suffered a severe allergic reaction, including temporary blindness, after consuming coffee from a vending machine infested with flies.

This alarming incident highlighted the risks associated with these seemingly harmless machines.

Despite regular inspections and refills, the machine’s internal mechanisms and hidden crevices can be breeding grounds for insects and larvae.


The warmth, darkness, and moisture inside these machines—along with sugary syrups and drinks create the perfect environment for pests to thrive.

The Australia Vending Association (AVA) highlighted that pests are attracted to waste food and can become a health hazard if not addressed immediately.

Unfortunately, the proximity of vending machines to waste bins in public spaces makes them prime locations for infestation.


Maintenance and hygiene: a crucial step

Vending Solutions emphasised the importance of regular cleaning and maintenance of vending machines.

According to them, compressors and condensers must be cleaned monthly to prevent dust accumulation and product decay, which can attract insects.

Coffee vending machines, in particular, need daily flushing with hot water to remove product buildup.

Spilt liquids provide hydration for maggots. Sweet flavours can also attract insects, increasing the risk of infestation.


The risks of ingesting insects and larvae

Ingesting contaminated products can lead to intestinal myiasis, where larvae infest a person's internal organs and feed on bodily tissues.

While some may not experience symptoms, others could suffer severe reactions, including deafness and blindness.

Epidemic Conjunctivitis, a disease commonly spread by flies, can cause eye redness, swollen eyelids, and sensitivity to light.

Moreover, flies carry harmful bacteria from various sources, including human or animal waste.

These bacteria can then be transmitted to foods and drinks and cause bacterial poisoning.

Salmonella, a typical result of consuming contaminated products, can lead to abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and fever.


Real-life horror stories

Last year, a mum warned coffee machine owners after finding maggots in her equipment.

Despite thoroughly cleaning the machine, she discovered larvae in hard-to-reach areas beneath the drip tray.

In a related event, a woman found maggots in her blender 24 hours after using it and emphasised the importance of cleaning appliances thoroughly.

Protecting yourself and your loved ones

We must be vigilant about our coffee—regardless if it’s store-bought or at home.

Here are some tips to ensure your next cup is safe:

1. Regularly clean and maintain your coffee machines. Descale and thoroughly wash all removable parts.
2. Inspect vending machines before use. If a machine looks dirty or poorly maintained, avoid it.
3. Report any issues with public vending machines to the appropriate authorities or the establishment.
4. Consider carrying a small, portable coffee press or similar device when travelling to avoid relying on vending machines.

So the next time you brew your coffee at home—or buy a cuppa—make sure your caffeine source is free from pesky insects that may loom around machines.
Have you ever encountered similar problems with a vending machine or your home coffee equipment? Share your experiences and cleaning tips in the comments section below.