Statement from J. Patrick Mohan, Interim President of the Corn Refiners Association, on the New York State Supreme Court’s Decision to Invalidate New York City’s Ban on Large Sugar-Sweetened Beverages

WASHINGTON, DC – “The recent decision by New York City to ban large, sugar-sweetened drinks was a misdirected attempt to solve the serious health issue of obesity and obesity-related diseases by seeking to demonize a specific product instead of looking for productive solutions.

“The key to appropriate consumption is arming consumers with the information they need to make educated choices for themselves and their families. All foods can be part of a healthy, diverse diet as long as they are consumed in moderation and combined with physical activity.

“Decades of scientific research have produced overwhelming data showing that establishing a healthy overall dietary pattern and lifestyle is a more effective strategy for decreasing obesity than singling out or restricting one particular nutrient or food.

“The more we learn about how our bodies metabolize added sugars such as table sugar and high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), the more it becomes clear they pose no undue health risks when consumed in moderation.

“As we continue to debate the root causes of our nation’s obesity epidemic, we need to rely on science and facts. Not look for quick fixes such as attempting to legislate behavior through arbitrary consumption limits that draw focus away from developing real solutions to complex issues.”

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The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) is the national trade association representing the corn refining (wet milling) industry of the United States. CRA and its predecessors have served this important segment of American agribusiness since 1913. Corn refiners manufacture sweeteners, ethanol, starch, bioproducts, corn oil and feed products from corn components such as starch, oil, protein and fiber.

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