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California introduces bill to require warning labels on sugary drinks
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The first legislation requiring safety warning labels on sugary drinks sold was introduced this week in California, according to a press release.
“As physicians, we’re desperate to break the cycle of diabetes and obesity we see in our offices every day,” Ashby Wolfe, MD, of the California Medical Association, which is sponsoring the legislation, said in a press release. “Americans drink more than 45 gallons of sugary beverages a year. These drinks have become a major part of the American diet, and we drink them without a second thought to the damage they do to our health. Consumers have a right to know about the unique health problems associated with soda and other sugary drinks.”
The bill, SB 1000, would require the placement of a warning on the front of all beverage containers that contain 75 or more calories per 12 ounces. According to the press release, the warning label will read: “STATE OF CALIFORNIA SAFETY WARNING: Drinking beverages with added sugar(s) contributes to obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay.”
“The science on the harmful impacts associated with drinking soda and other sugary drinks is clear and conclusive. An overwhelming body of research has unequivocally shown that sugary drinks are major contributors to obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay,” Harold Goldstein, DrPH, of the California Center for Public Health Advocacy, another group sponsoring the legislation, said in the release. “These diseases cost California billions of dollars in health care and lost productivity every year. When any product causes this much harm, it is time to take action.”
The Latino Coalition for a Healthy California and the California Black Health Network also joined as sponsors for the legislation, according to the release.