Telling New Yorkers how big their sodas should be is like telling them where to live or what team to root for, a one-minute radio spot sponsored by the American Beverage Association charges.
The radio ad, released this weekend, urges New Yorkers to oppose Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s proposed ban on the sale of sweetened drinks in cups or containers larger than 16 ounces.
It features voice-overs that sound like New Yorkers – all slightly incredulous and some with city accents – describing the ban as an affront to residents’ freedom of choice.
“Once again he’s telling us what we can and can’t have,” says one guy.
“I make the decisions for me and my family, thank you very much,” adds a female voice.
The ad is part of a push by New Yorkers for Beverage Choices, representing about 300 businesses that believe “consumers have the right to purchase beverages in whatever size they choose.”
The ban, which would apply to drinks with 25 calories or more per eight ounces, has been controversial since Bloomberg proposed it at the end of May. Critics say it’s confusing and possibly ineffective since the beverages are banned from restaurants, movie theaters and arenas but not supermarkets and grocery stores.
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5 Responses
yeah, I’ve heard that ad, I fully support it
Bloomberg’s suggestion is medically sound. No one is compelled to listen to him. It is your choice. It is just as correct for a leader to advise reducing the sugar intake as it is for him to suggest that you stop smoking. More power to him for good leadership.
2. Please don’t fall for the liberal wackyness! He isn’t “suggesting” it, he wants it to be a LAW!!!!!! That is a major overstepping of the govt! Its not the govt’s responsibility to tell you what to drink or eat.
I don’t know you but I prefer my liberty as opposed to your tyranny!
dmmd, what on earth are you talking about when you say nobody is compelled to listen to him? Are you insane or just not on this planet? The whole point is that he is compelling us. He’s not Michelle 0bama, nagging away but with no power; he is using the power of the law. Seriously, dude, you’re way off base.
Please read the Bloomberg’s proposal. It is to ban only sugary soft drinks in sizes over 16 ounces. I am on this planet and can read English.