NYC passes controversial ban on some sugary drinks - WOWK 13 Charleston, Huntington WV News, Weather, Sports

NYC passes controversial ban on some sugary drinks

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The New York City Board of Health has officially passed a ban on some sugary drinks.

The rule applies to sodas and other calorie-rich beverages that are larger than 16 ounces.

It's a move that's never been done before and will affect restaurants, movie theatres, and even fast food places in NYC.  Most supermarkets and convenience stores are exempt from the ban.

Some people think it will be a good move for a country that's plagued with high obesity rates.

"I love what New York City has done. The Board of Health has spoken. It's exciting to see. They've lead the way throughout the menu labeling, banning trans fat, smoking in the city. All of these are little steps in the right direction, said Cindy Boggs, Healthy Living Coordinator at the YMCA.

Chuck Smith said he used to drink regular soda. Now, he just drinks Coke Zero, which is exempt from this rule.

"It's so easy to get all of these extra calories that you don't need if you're drinking these sugary drinks," he said.

Other people think that the rule is ridiculous and that the government needs to mind its own business.

Lorraine Menchaca bought a 23-ounce sweet tea and said it is her choice whether or not to drink it.

"There would be a lot of mad people, a whole lot of mad people. There's a lot of people who drink pop, sweep pop, Coca Cola, Pepsi, it's good. It's the best in the world. A lot of people have to have it. I have to have it," she said.

John Loudermilk also drinks a lot of soda, sometimes in containers larger than 16 ounces.

"I drink coke. That's what I drink every day, all day long. About seven or eight, easy," he said.

For others, the super-sized cups are all about saving money.

"I paid a dollar for this. If you buy this from the shelf, it's two dollars. So, I'm actually saving a dollar and five cents for getting it with this 44 ounce," said Latwane Pugh.

Still, fitness experts believe that too many people are drinking their calories they never burn off.

"They are empty calories. People sit them on their desk during the day. They're giving them to their children as a beverage instead of water or milk," Boggs said.

The NYC rule will start in March. Businesses and restaurants that violate the rule will be fined.

It's unclear if other cities will follow suit and try to adopt similar bans in the future.