Abstract: A foodstuff vending machine has a vending housing includes a processing container for containing and processing of a foodstuff. A receiving basket is provided for receiving the foodstuff from the processing container. A dispensing mechanism is provided for dispensing the received foodstuff. The receiving basket has an operable surface with a closed position for preventing the received foodstuff from passing therethrough. The receiving basket also has an open position for permitting the received foodstuff to pass through to the dispensing mechanism. The receiving basket also has an opening device for opening the operable surface. The opening device is operable to open the operable surface upon contact with the dispensing mechanism.