NYC Obesity Ban May Expand to Include Popcorn and Milkshakes

New York City’s obesity battle may no longer be limited to just banning sugary drinks in cups larger than 16-ounces. The controversial proposed obesity ban initiated by Mayor Michael Bloomberg is now evolving to possibly include movie theater popcorn and milkshakes, according to The Blaze. The citywide ban on large sugary drinks is still in the planning stages and may face legal challenges from the New York Restaurant Association.

During a meeting of the New York City Board of Health yesterday the organization voted to approve a six-week public comment period to discuss the large sugary drinks ban, which is largely opposed by businesses, Fox NY reports. A Quinnipiac University on the issue notes that 51 percent of respondents are in opposition of limiting personal choice for food and beverage purchases. While the ban was initiated to thwart obesity, New Yorkers could still purchase two 16-ounce sugary beverages to quench their thirst, thus eliminating the supposed health benefits of the new law.

Apparently Mayor Bloomberg’s “trying to force people to understand large sugary drinks are bad for them,” comment to is not resonating with the majority of city residents and visitors. According to interview excerpts republished in The Blaze, Mayor Bloomberg also believes the city has an “obligation” to warn residents when “things” are not good for their health. Following this same mindset, is a New York City obesity ban on candy bars and pizza looming in the near future?

Although not officially included in the proposed obesity ban, New York Board of Health member Bruce Vladeck suggested the obesity ban should be expanded to include reducing the size of movie theater popcorn, Fox NY notes. Health board members also suggested that beverages containing milk which have “monstrous amounts” of calories like milk-coffee and milkshakes should be subject to size limitations as well.

New York to ban sales of large sodas to combat… by Zoomin_Canada