|
|
|
The New York Times reports that New York City plans to ban sodas and other sugary drinks larger than 16 ounces that are sold at restaurants, movie theaters and street carts in an effort to combat obesity.
The ban, which would be the first of its kind in the nation, could take effect as early as March 2013.
Diet sodas would not be included in the ban.
The Times reports that more than half of the adults in New York City are obese or overweight. According to Dr. Thomas Farley, the health commissioner, sugar-based drinks are responsible for up to half of the increase in the city’s obesity rates in the past 30 years.
To localize:
Get feedback from area restaurants. Are they concerned with such a ban? Would it hurt their businesses if the local municipality made a similar decision?
Ask readers their consumption habits when it comes to sugary drinks. How many ounces do they drink a day?
Check with pediatricians and family practitioners to get their feedback on the New York ban. What are their thoughts on sugary drinks and any correlation to obesity?
Do local politicans and officials agree with the ban? Would they take a different approach to combat obesity? What is the reaction from the beverage industry and affiliated associations?
