Since May, when New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg proposed his ban on sodas over 16 ounces, we here at Sip & Savor have been sharing opinion articles, letters to the editor and poll results illustrating that overwhelmingly people do not want the government telling them what they can eat or drink.  Furthermore, the scientific community and consumers alike doubt that New York City’s portion ban will be effective in combating obesity - Mayor Bloomberg’s sound-bite reason for proposing the law.

Yesterday, the Wall Street Journal ran a common sense piece written by Seth Goldman the president and TeaEO of Honest Tea. In addition to pointing out serious contradictions in the Mayor’s proposal, the article touches upon the importance of allowing consumer choice to preserve and steer American commerce – not subjective and regressive bans.

Goldman writes:

“As soon as government starts getting between us and the consumer, we quickly find ourselves considering scenarios that are not based on market realities or consumer needs.

I challenge the mayor and the New York City Board of Health to seriously consider the impediments that entrepreneurs already face in our efforts to offer lower-calorie drinks. Starting a business and building a challenger brand with modest resources is already a daunting task. The proposed ban would create additional barriers to beverage innovation.”

We hope you’ll take a moment to read Seth Goldman’s article. And remember, whether you are an entrepreneur, small business owner, restaurant-goer or New Yorker for freedom, let your voice be heard! Visit the New Yorkers for Beverage Choices coalition to sign the petition and get involved.