The year 2012 is coming to a close, and many of us are reflecting on the past year and contemplating what 2013 will bring. For New York City restaurants, sports venues and movie theaters, they have the possibility of "retooling" their operations to comply with Mayor Bloomberg's soda ban. In a recent post, blogger Bridget Sandorford summarized how New York business owners and residents are feeling about the impending soda ban: “Can the government make us happier by regulating what we eat and drink?”

Sandorford sums it up simply, stating:

“Personal choice will always be the trump card for any attempt to regulate or curb behavior. Even if penalties are imposed, they may not be a deterrent. The key is to get to the heart of the choice -- to find a way to change the behavior.”

If you are a frequent Sip & Savor reader you are certainly aware of the meaningful actions the beverage industry is already taking to help combat obesity. In schools, we voluntarily removed all full-calorie soft drinks and replaced them with more low- and no-calorie options – driving a 90 percent decline in beverage calories shipped to schools. Through our Clear on Calories initiative, we’ve placed clear calorie labels on the front of every bottle, can and pack we produce to help consumers make the right choice for them. To learn more, visit deliveringchoices.org.