Step away from the soda, New York's soda ban

The New York City board of health has approved Mayor Michael Bloomberg's controversial plan to limit the amount of sugary soda drinks that can be purchased at food outlets to 16 ounces (473ml).

When Bloomberg first announced his plan over three months ago, he sparked a nationwide debate about the extent of government control over an individual's healthcare choices. In June, we asked you to share your thoughts with us about the idea - is the plan a plausible solution to the obesity epidemic in the US? Or is the legislation just another example of Bloomberg's 'Nanny-stateism'?

Since then, the mayor has imposed age restrictions on tanning beds and introduced "Latch On NYC", an initiative to teach new mothers the "breast is best" principle. But while Bloomberg continues to be accused of overextending his authority, obesity rates in the US continue to rise and other cities, like London, are looking to NYC's health policies as future models.

We revisited our people's panel participants and asked them whether or not they've changed their mind about the soda ban.

By Ruth Spencer