Did you know?

Sugar-sweetened beverages make up just a small part of the American diet - only 7 percent.   That means Americans get 93 percent of their calories from other foods and beverages.

Also interesting is that sales of regular soft drinks declined by 12 percent from 2000 to 2009, due in part to industry innovation.  In fact, the total amount of beverage calories industry has brought to market decreased by 21 percent between 1998 to 2008 - once again largely due to innovation and production of more no- and low-calorie beverages and smaller portion sizes.

Despite all of this, obesity rates for children and adults have continued to rise.  So, when we hear lawmakers and others proposing narrowly-focused legislation or other programs that single out our products in the name of public health, we just don't see how they make a connection.

We agree that obesity is a very serious and complex issue.  But, it requires comprehensive solutions - like consumer education programs and balancing calories consumed from all food sources with calories burned through physical activity.  For examples of how industry can make a meaningful impact on this and other issues, check out our member companies' Clear on Calories and School Beverage Guidelines initiatives.

For more information, please check out our website.