A vote of eight to zero in the New York City Board of Health approved Mayor Bloomberg’s ban on large-size sugary drinks. Under the innovative law, which is expected to go into effect March 12, 2013, sugary beverages with more than 25 calories per eight fluid ounces cannot be sold in containers exceeding 16 fluid ounces. The law affects all New York City restaurants, mobile food carts, delis and concession stands at theatres and arenas.

“This is the biggest step a city has taken to curb obesity,” Mayor Michael Bloomberg said in a press release. “Simply by proposing limits on sugary drinks, New York City pushed the issue of obesity, and the impact of sugary beverages, onto the national stage.”

According to Marion Nestle, professor of Nutrition, Food Studies and Public Health, roughly two-thirds of Americans are overweight — half of them obese.

“Sodas have sugars and no nutrients. Those are useless calories that most people don’t need,” Professor Nestle said. “A 16-ounce soda is two servings and 10 percent of daily calorie needs for most people, which is plenty. Those who want more can ask for it but that might make them think twice, which is the point.”

The proposal — first introduced at the Board of Health meeting on June 12 — triggered a controversial response from individuals and local businesses.

According to Eliot Hoff, spokeman for New Yorkers for Beverages Choices, the group is challenging the Board of Health’s ruling in an effort to stand up for the choices of New Yorkers and defend businesses in the city.

“This is not the end,” Hoff said in a press release. “We are exploring legal options and all other avenues available to us.”

“We will continue to voice our opposition to this ban and fight for the right of New Yorkers to make their own choices,” he said. “And we will stand with the business owners who will be hurt by these arbitrary limitations.”

Gallatin junior Julia Spillane said she views the ban as both a restrictive policy on the public’s freedom of choice, and a step toward encouraging healthy dietary habits and preventing the rise of obesity.

“On the surface, I think the ban is a bit too controlling and intrusive on our personal right to consume what we wish,” Spillane said. “Still, perhaps the ban will cause the public to rethink daily diet choices.”

Stern senior Richard Sequeira said the ban has good intentions, but he is not convinced the law will help combat the obesity epidemic.

“I’m not sure how effective it will be in promoting public health and I believe that it would be an example of government overreach,” Sequeria said. “The public will still have access to a great deal of unhealthy foods in oversized portions.”

Kayana Jean-Philippe is city state deputy. Email them at [email protected].