Up in fizz: New York soda ban approved
High-fructose corn syrup, a common sweetener found in soft drinks, has been found to interfere with memory and learning, according to a study published on May 15, 2012.
Say goodbye to the Big Gulp in the Big Apple.
New York City's Board of Health unanimously passed a ban Thursday on the sale of sugary drinks larger than 16 ounces in city restaurants, stadiums and other venues, the Wall Street Journal reported.
More from GlobalPost: Mayor Michael Bloomberg wants large sodas banned in New York
Backers of the sweeping initiative spearheaded by Mayor Michael Bloomberg hope it will lower obesity rates in America's largest city.
Critics of the measure have decried it as goverment run amok.
More from GlobalPost: Kids who drink soda at increased risk of heart disease
The ban takes effect March 12, although the city won't start fining businesses that violate it until June, according to US News & World Report.
It will not apply to drinks sold in grocery stores, diet sodas, drinks that are more than 70 percent fruit juice, or that contain alcohol, The Huffington Post reported.
Bloomberg insists the plan will eventually gain favor, although a recent Quinnipiac University poll found it has fallen flat with 51 percent of New Yorkers.
Opponents told The Huffington Post they are weighing their legal options.
The article you just read is free because dedicated readers and listeners like you chose to support our nonprofit newsroom. Our team works tirelessly to ensure you hear the latest in international, human-centered reporting every weekday. But our work would not be possible without you. We need your help.
Make a gift today to help us reach our $25,000 goal and keep The World going strong. Every gift will get us one step closer.