Size matters, at least when it comes to soda. Restriction of larger drinks could possibly reverse the intended effects of decreasing soda consumption.
A study showed that college-aged participants would buy more ounces of soda when given the chance, according to the Public Library of Science One, which published the study.
“I know drinking soda is unhealthy, but having a few a week seems fine to me,” said Kevin Seamon, a 20-year-old UF biology sophomore.
New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s plan would remove all soft drinks larger than 16 ounces. However, if it is endorsed, the regulations could increase soda consumption, the study’s lead author Brent Wilson wrote in an email.
When students only had an option of one size, 62 percent chose to buy a soda, compared to 84 percent of those who had a choice of so-called bundled options, or two or more sodas at the same time.
Margarita Torres, a registered dietician and professor at Santa Fe College, said she does not think the ban would change soda-drinking habits. However, she said the debate is putting emphasis on the serious health consequences of consuming soda.
“Focusing on more awareness and education is really going to be the key to solving this problem in the end,” she said.
