We support and applaud New York City’s proposed 16 ounce size cap on the sale of sugary drinks at restaurants, movie theaters, and food carts. Children and families deserve healthy options. The manufacturers and retailers of sodas and other highly-sugared drinks should no longer be able to pretend that a beverage over 16 ounces is a single serving. New York City has taken a position of true leadership by demonstrating the critical role good public policy can have in creating a food environment that fosters health and makes raising healthy children less of an uphill struggle.

The research on sugary drinks is conclusive: increased serving sizes lead to greater consumption, which has a direct relationship to chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and stroke – diseases that could be prevented. These same chronic diseases cause seven out of ten American deaths and account for more than 75% of our nation’s health care spending. New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley is absolutely correct to say "government has a duty to respond to a crisis."

As public health advocates and members of the community dedicated to improving health and preventing disease, we stand with New York City in its efforts. Not only does this bold step protect the health of New Yorkers, it provides a model for other communities around the country to use local policies to counter the worst practices of the food and beverage industry and create healthier conditions for families to thrive.