An ingredient loading device for preparation units of vending machine comprises a plurality of containers (2) for powder ingredients, having a dispensing element (3) designed to fit into an opening (101) of a preparation unit (100), a plurality of slides (4), coupled to a respective container (2), and adapted to move between a rest position distal from the preparation unit (100) and an operating position in which the dispensing element (3) is inserted in the preparation unit (100), a first actuator member (6) which is selectively operative on one container (2) at a time, and second actuator members (7) located on each container (2) and designed to mate with said actuator member (6) to move the slide (4). A rotary table (8) rotating about an axis of rotation (X), and having the slides (4) slidably engaged therewith, brings a container (2) in front of the first actuator member (6).
