K A S H R U T . C O M_©

The following news from the IFT on June 22, 2012.

"N.Y. Mayor proposes ban of large sugary drinks; NYC Board of Health approves
According to The New York Times, New York City plans to enact a far-reaching ban on the sale of large sodas and other sugary drinks at restaurants, movie theaters, and street carts, in an effort by Mayor Michael Bloomberg to combat rising obesity. The proposed ban would affect virtually the entire menu of popular sugary drinks found in delis, fast-food franchises, and even sports arenas, from energy drinks to pre-sweetened iced teas. The sale of any cup or bottle of sweetened drink larger than 16 oz would be prohibited under the first-in-the-nation plan, which could take effect as soon as next March. The measure would not apply to drinks with fewer than 25 calories per 8-oz serving, such as diet sodas, enhanced water, or fruit juices. In addition, the ban would not apply to dairy-based drinks like milkshakes or alcoholic beverages. It also would not extend to beverages sold in grocery stores or convenience stores. Restaurants, delis, movie theater, and ballpark concessions would be affected, because they are regulated by the health department. Carts on sidewalks and in Central Park would also be included, but not vending machines or newsstands that serve only a smattering of fresh food items."
"In other news, according to The Washington Post, New York City’s Board of Health has unanimously advanced Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s proposal to ban sweetened drinks above 16 oz at foodservice establishments throughout the city.
The proposal only needs to win approval from one government body to become law, the city’s unelected board of health, and the panel took the first step toward making that happen June 13 with a unanimous vote to begin a six-week public comment period. A public hearing has been scheduled for July 24. A formal vote whether to approve the measure isn’t scheduled to take place until Sept. 13."