New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg encountered a minor speedbump on his quest to have large sugary drinks banned from certain establishments. A judge blocked the restrictions, saying that they were “arbitrary and capricious.”
New York state Supreme Court judge Milton Tingling wrote in his decision that the court found the proposal to be filled with exemptions that are based on economic and political concerns.
“The effect would be a person is unable to buy a drink larger than 16 ounces at one establishment but may be able to buy it at another establishment that may be located right next door,” Tingling wrote.
Bloomberg and the city’s top lawyer, Michael Cardozo, told reporters at a conference following the announcement that they believe the decision was an error and they will win on appeal.
According to Bloomberg, the New York Board of Health has always been a pioneer when it comes to residents’ safety and well-being. In 2006, the organization banned the use of artificial trans-fats in foods and required the posting of calorie counts at chain restaurants. Additionally, it led the way in banning lead paint and requiring fluoride be put in drinking water.
The new law would ban the sale of sugary drinks to no more than 16 ounces in restaurants, fast-food eateries, movie theaters and stadiums. However, certain retailers – like 7-Eleven – would be exempt, as they are state- and not city-regulated.
This is not the first move to try and curb obesity levels across the nation. Food and drink producers can be more transparent in their ingredients by ensuring that they design custom labels that are accurate. By making labels that adhere to federal and state standards, companies can stay compliant while still offering consumers a quality product.
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