New York has been renowned for implementing health restrictions which have been seen to benefit the majority, such as banning smoking in public places.

However it’s new health law is set out to try and wipe out obesity in the big apple, has become a recent source of controversy.

NYC‘s board of health this week approved mayor Michael Bloomberg’s proposals to prohibit the sale of sugary drinks larger than 16oz in restaurants, cinemas, stadiums and arenas across the city.

The panel rejected opposition to the ban from companies including major soft drink brands such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi. They argued that consumers should have the freedom to choose what they drink.

New York is the first city in the US to outlaw the sale of oversized fizzy drinks despite the move opposed by large sections of residents.

Despite them being banned from public places, residents can still get their oversized sweet drinks from convenience and grocery stores.

‘This is the single biggest step any city has ever taken to curb obesity, certainly not the last step that lots of cities are going to take,’ Mayor Bloomberg said. ‘We believe it will save many lives.’

He added: ‘Obesity for the first time in the history of the world will kill more people this year in the world than starvation. It has gone from becoming a rich person’s disease to a poor person’s disease. It’s the only public health issue that’s getting worse.’

Vendors have six months to comply with the ban or face large fines of up to $200 (€150) if they break the ban.

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