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Stockton, CA Passes ‘Healthy-by-Default’ Kids’ Meal Beverage Ordinance

 

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On June 8th, the city of Stockton, California passed an ordinance requiring either water or milk to be served as the default beverage in children’s meals.  This is the second law of its kind adopted by an American city, following the city of Davis, California. The so-called “healthy-by-default” rule–passed unanimously by the Stockton City Council –aims to impact the city’s skyrocketing childhood obesity rate and worsening type 2 diabetes epidemic.  The ordinance will go into effect July 8, 2016.

 “Instead of getting an unwanted soda without asking for one –and being forced to negotiate with their child –parents will be given the opportunity to start the meal off right with a healthy beverage,” said Vice Mayor Christina Fugazi. “Most parents will stick with the healthier option, protecting their children from the long-term chronic problems associated with liquid candy, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity and tooth decay.”

Watch the Stockton City Council debate the ‘Healthy-by-Default’ ordinance.

Read more about this important win for Stockton families from the Public Health Advocates.