NYC May Ban Large Sodas and Sugary Drinks

Following last week’s proposed ban on junk food in jail commissaries, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg has unveiled another citywide initiative to curb obesity and improve the health of the community. On Wednesday, he announced his intention to ban sodas and sugar-laden drinks that are 16 ounces or larger from restaurants, movie theaters, and other establishments. The unprecedented proposal, which may be implemented as early as next March, excludes diet sodas, fruit juices, alcoholic drinks, and dairy-based drinks, as well as beverages sold in grocery stores. Though soda companies have been critical of the ban, the measure is supported by health advocates such as vegan former president Bill Clinton, who called the mayor’s decision “the right thing.”