NYC Bans Big, Sugary Drinks at Restaurants

No other U.S. city has tried to fight the obesity epidemic by restricting portion sizes at restaurants.

Posted: 09/14/2012 05:06 PM EDT

NEW YORK (AP) — In a first-in-the-nation ruling, New York City is barring restaurants, cafeterias and concessions stands from selling soda and other calorie-rich drinks in containers larger than 16 ounces.

The regulation, which was proposed in the spring by Mayor Michael Bloomberg, was passed on Thursday by the city's Board of Health after several months of review.

Now, public health experts around the nation — and the restaurant and soft-drink industry — will be watching closely to see whether the new restrictions lead to changes in the way New Yorkers eat and drink.

No other U.S. city has tried to fight the obesity epidemic by restricting portion sizes at restaurants. City officials say they were willing to take dramatic action to get the public to see that empty-calorie foods are a menace.

 

BET Health News - We go beyond the music and entertainment world to bring you important medical information and health-related tips of special relevance to Blacks in the U.S. and around the world. Click here to subscribe to our newsletter. 

 

(Photo: AP Photo/Kathy Willens)

Videos You May Like

Comments

Devastation in Oklahoma

A look at some of the damage in the Midwest. 05/21/2013

Racial Tolerance Around the World

See how hospitable these nations are to newcomers. 05/17/2013

10 Calorie-Cutting Tips to Try

Healthy eating tips to help you slim down for summer. 05/17/2013

Out and About: Jamie Foxx Parties in New York

Plus pics of Halle Berry, Jaden Smith, Kid Cudi and more. 05/21/2013

All Together Now: Overdue Collaborations

Artists that have should've linked up, like, yesterday. 05/20/2013

La Isla Bonita: Stars With Cuban Roots

We celebrate Cuba Libre with these Latin celebs. 05/20/2013