NYC & Sugar Sweetened Beverages
In May 2012, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg proposed a size limit on the sale of sugar sweetened beverages in New York City. The proposal was part of a sweeping package of health initiatives aimed at reducing the obesity rate. Sugary beverages in particular were targeted because they contained no nutritional value, did not contribute to a feeling of fullness and were linked to health problems like obesity and diabetes. ‘
As the Mayor's deputy press secretaryand senior health and human services aide, I was point on the communciations roll-out.
The proposal received national and international attention and was accompanied by a drumbeat of press conferences and targeted media partnerships — including with hospitals, unions, farmers markets and small business owners. Ultimately, the courts determined the NYC board of health did not have the authority to impose such a ban.
However, the Mayor’s proposal prompted a national conversation that changed the way people thought and talked about sugary beverages and their connection with weight.
Since that time, more than 50 governments — including Mexico, including San Francisco and Philadelphia, — have passed taxes on sugary beverages that have helped raise awareness and reduce consumption.
Key Media:
Bloomberg Plans a Ban on Large Sugared Drinks - The New York Times (nytimes.com)
The New York City soda ban explained - The Washington Post
Why Mike Bloomberg’s 'Soda Ban' Could Actually Work (thedailybeast.com)
Health Board Approves Bloomberg’s Soda Ban - The New York Times (nytimes.com)
Persistent Obesity Fuels Soda Ban by Bloomberg - The New York Times (nytimes.com)