Abstract: A method and apparatus designed to insure the integrity of food and food service in vending cart. Specifically, disclosed is a system that ensures the integrity of the food will not be compromised, by providing an enclosed or environmentally protected food service station, either portable, mobile or stationary. The system may also provide food monitoring for security, time, temperature and transaction accounting. The system consists of an enclosed or environmentally protected food service station, a sealed food compartment in which food is served, a food storage compartment, an access door for providing service and cleaning to the sealed sections of the station, and optionally an integrated security system that ensures that all access doors and ports are monitored for access and integrity. The security system provides an alarm and reporting capability. Authorization codes are provided to control alarm reset and accounting features of the system.

Abstract: This panel assembly (30) for a merchandiser (10) includes frame assembly (34) includes attached to the merchandiser and wall (22) and an aracuate translucent sheet (34). The frame assembly (34) includes opposed side retaining rails (36) receiving the flexed arcuate sheet (34) in retained relation, a lower base member (46) having an arcuate front wall (52), and an upper cap member (56) having an arcuate front wall (62). The panel assembly (30) includes a back-lighting assembly (80) for illuminating the translucent sheet (34).