First Belgian fries vending machine in Brussels

Outside a supermarket on the Chaussée de Gand in Brussels yesterday, the first fully automatic fries vending machine served up a hot portion of  the Belgians' favourite fast food. According to BreakTime Solutions, the company behind the machine, it is a first in Belgium, writes French-language daily La Dernière Heure. "The device has been tested in India and Romania," explains Tuline Bey of BreakTime. "We have tested for a year in order to adapt the machine to frying with ox fat." A serving of 135 grams costs €2.5 euros, sauce included (ketchup, mayonnaise or samurai sauce). The cooking time is one and a half minutes. For that speed, the fryer must be permanently engaged, although it may turn off at night. The machine is perfectly safe, ensures the company.