More on Limiting Sugary Drinks

By Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom

Here’s an update on the sugary drink debate and size limits that I wrote about back in June. New York City’s leadership proposed a ban on the sale of sugary drinks larger than 16 ounces. A huge debate followed, ranging from personal choice and cost issues to the increasing presence of the food police. All of this was speculation until the Board of Health voted on this hot button issue. You might be surprised to hear that this ban was recently approved. 

The ban covers sodas and sugary drink blends, not 100% juice. Also excluded are dairy-based drinks containing at least 50 percent milk.

Having thought a little more about this controversy, I wonder if size limit is really the issue – 16 ounces is two full cups (around 200 calories). Could the real issue be the idea that someone wants to limit personal food choice? It’s not like Americans are unaccustomed to smaller serving sizes. If you’re over 40 years old, you can recall a time when 16 ounces was considered a huge serving! Now, we are so used to seeing super-sized servings everywhere, the 16-ounce serving looks puny by comparison.

Do you think this will become a national phenomenon? Many people never thought a bill like this one would pass. Is this a nod to more “mindful eating” or an intrusion of personal rights? 

Please share your thoughts on this controversial issue.