NYC Soda Ban Goes Into Effect Tuesday

Mayor Bloomberg’s NYC soda ban will go into effect this Tuesday (March 12).

In order to make sure that restaurants are following all of the rules and regulations, health inspectors will be conducting visits. These individuals will reportedly carry a 17-ounce cups to make sure the beverages in question are being dispensed according to the law.

The NYC soda ban will force restaurants to serve drinks in cups no larger than 16 ounces. Those found in violation could face hefty fines as a result.

Several soda manufacturers are currently involved in a class action lawsuit against the city of New York. Since the ban will reportedly cut into sales, the companies are hoping to get the ban reversed.

Many restaurant owners are holding out for a ruling before they stop serving larger drinks to their customers. The city will give restaurants three months to comply with the new regulations before citing them for violations.

While some business owners are hoping the NYC soda ban will be removed from the books, other restaurants are starting to make some changes. Dunkin’ Donuts reportedly told customers that they will have to sweeten their own drinks in order to follow the new rules.

Restaurants aren’t the only places which will be affected by these changes. Bowling alleys will no longer be allowed to serve pitchers of soda once the NYC ban goes effect. Movie theaters are also restructuring their menus in an effort to accommodate the law.

Although most people are referring to these regulations as a “ban,” Mayor Bloomberg prefers the term “portion control.”

“Being overweight is the first time it’s gone from a rich person’s disease to a poor person’s disease,” the New York City mayor recently explained. “We’ve just got to do something. And all we’re doing in New York is reminding you that it’s not in your interest to have too many empty calories.”

Diet drinks, alcoholic beverages, and other non-sugary drinks can still be obtained in large containers. Since the ban only targets restaurants, people who need a lot of soda can still purchase them from convenience stores and supermarkets.

The sugary drink ban will not be observed at Starbucks locations. Since their beverages are customized by customers, the company stated it shouldn’t have to adhere to the regulations.

“A majority of our drinks fall outside of the ban, and we’re not expecting to make any immediate changes next week,” Starbucks said in a statement.

Will you be affected by the NYC soda ban when it goes into effect on Tuesday?

[Top Image by vjeran2001 / Stock.Xchng]