There is much contention as to what the best sodas and vending machines snacks are, but I am here to set the record straight. Few people prefer Pepsi over Coke, but honestly it doesn't really matter. Both soda companies make a variety of cherry cola which is easily the best variety of soda when eating something greasy, namely a cheeseburger, hot dog, or piece of pizza. I learned this at an early age at Rocco's Pizza; I'd get so excited that Mom was letting me have soda. Of course I'd choose the reddest one, that being my favorite color. A Cherry Coke (or Wild Cherry Pepsi) is undoubtedly the best to eat with a piece of pepperoni pizza. Many vending machines don't offer a cherry cola option, which is why when you see office vending machines with this option, it's important to act fast.
If you're simply going for refreshment without eating anything, Sprite or 7Up is your best bet. These lemon-lime beverages don't have the caffeine you need to jolt you awake after a thousand calorie meal. They're also lighter-seeming and on a hot day they aren't as sweet as Coke (although an ice cold Coke from vending machines is pretty good too, depending on your preference).
As far as the best vending machine snacks go, we immediately think of potato chips. Nothing satisfies like crunchy, crispy, crinkly (depending on your preferences) potatoes. If you're going to eat potato chips, you may as well indulge a little bit. Go beyond crinkle cut. Experiment. Get crazy. Regular potato chips are always there. They're boring. Get a special flavor, such as sour cream and onion, a perennial favorite amongst chip-eaters. For those adventurous types, sea salt and vinegar are clear winners. The only downside with these chips is the fine sea salt and vinegary film they leave on your fingers. Even when you lick them, there remains a residue which can be hard to combat.
And if you want chocolate and you're hungry, Snickers is the result. The peanuts pack energy, the caramel sweetness, and the chocolate a sugar jolt. It's the perfect in-between meals snack, ideal to purchase from the office vending machine when the two o'clock jitters take hold.
Keep this in mind whenever you're hungry or thirsty. Vending machines are here to serve you, but if you aren't careful, you can easily take them for granted and wind up being disappointed.