Proposed Ban on Large Soft Drinks in NYC Figures to Turn Up the Heat on “Supersize” Soft Drink Packages

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New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s proposed ban on large soft drinks and other sugary drinks is putting pressure on drink makers to tone down the size of their packages. Bloomberg’s effort, aimed to reduce obesity, is gaining steam and focusing on eliminating the giant sugary beverages from movie theaters, restaurants, and other street vendors. The initiative seeks to reduce the large size of drinks to 16 ounces, whereas some drinks go up to 32 ounces. The law could go into effect as early as March of 2013.

The microscope is zoomed in on energy drink makers, who are infamous for their over-sized packages and drinks chock full of sugar. Conversely, energy shots, like Five Hour Energy, could emerge as the winner in the battle because of their diminutive size. Although Bloomberg’s stance is controversial, relatively 30% of Americans think that the food and beverage industry is doing a good job of managing the obesity problem in the country. That is a great sign for Bloomberg and the initiative because it leaves a gap between what people think needs to be done and what has been done to combat obesity.

Posted by Markus Micheaels

08/06/12

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