The Wuxi government is poised to install 500 fresh food vending machines in 2016, in an effort to make it convenient for residents to consume their "five a day", according to the Jiangnan Evening News.

The vending machines will be set up by Wuxi-based online supermarket, Dang Jia, and will operate 24 hours a day, storing 192 semi-finished dishes ready to cook.

The prices are set be competitive too, lower than the standard market price. For example, 500 grams of pork liver and garlic will be sold for about 7 yuan ($1.06). Customers can pay using online payment services such as Alipay or Wechat.

The atmosphere inside the vending machines will be remotely controlled to ensure the temperature and humidity is ideal for keeping raw foods fresh.

The first locations to have the vending machines installed will be subway stations, residential areas and office buildings that are far away from shopping areas.

Edited by Owen Fishwick