Having a pop at the BIG gulp
When it comes to food, we’re a passionate bunch. We only need to look at the outrage that caused the Chancellor to back down this week over the hated ‘pasty tax’. So should we learn lessons from this week’s events?
Now New York’s mayor, Michael Bloomberg, wants to restrict sales of large sized sugary soft drinks in public venues. He believes that banning the bubbles will combat obesity, diabetes, and other health problems plaguing the people of the Big Apple.
Comparing sugary soft drinks to asbestos, New York’s mayor argues, ‘the government has a responsibility to regulate how New Yorkers quench their thirst’. The move would outlaw sales drinks of 473 ml (16 oz) and over in restaurants, cinemas, stadiums and arenas.
Coca-Cola has already hit out at the move, saying: “New Yorkers expect and deserve better than this. They can make their own choices about the beverages they purchase. We hope New Yorkers loudly voice their disapproval about this arbitrary mandate.”
The ban would apply to any drink that contains more than 25 calories per 235 ml (8 ounces), and less than 51% milk or milk substitute by volume as an ingredient, meaning Americans’ beloved milk shakes would be given a reprieve.
The move is the latest of several anti-obesity and nutrition initiatives undertaken by Mr Bloomberg to tackle the incidence of obesity-related conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
However, it seems that it’s an idea that could catch on over here. Tam Fry, from the National Obesity Forum, said the move by New York mayor Michael Bloomberg was the way forward to tackle the London’s obesity epidemic.
In an interview with the Evening Standard, he said: “London should take a leaf out of New York’s book. Everything Michael Bloomberg does is backed up with perfectly good science. If England were to follow more what America was doing then we would be in a much better situation.”
Good idea or will it go flat quicker that a can of coke on a hot summers day?
