A consumer group wants to take the fizz out of soda pop by forcing companies such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi to place warnings on bottles and cans that the drinks can make people fat and lead to other health problems.
The Center for Science in the Public Interest says people who down soft drinks like water are also more likely to develop diabetes and have rotting teeth.
And it wants the Food and Drug Administration to require cigarette-style notices in plain sight.
Among the warnings the group suggests are: “To help protect your waistline and your teeth, consider switching to diet sodas or water” and “Drinking too many [non-diet] soft drinks contributes to weight gain.”
Soft drinks with more than 10 milligrams of caffeine per 12-ounce serving should also carry warnings that say it is “a mildly addictive stimulant drug” that is “not appropriate for children,” CSPI said in a report.
“Parents and health officials need to recognize soft drinks for what they are – liquid candy – and do everything they can to return those beverages to their former role as an occasional treat,” the officials wrote.
Studies reveal that teen boys drink about 1.5 cans of soda a day on average compared to one can for girls, the group says.
With Post Wire Services