American Beverage Association Decreases Calories in Beverages

SHELLEY LIN
Staff Writer

Soda and juice have been a big part of many people’s childhoods. The addictingly sweet and fizzy drinks have always satisfied their taste buds; however, many do not realize exactly how much sugar is added in the drinks. Because of high sugar intake in America, the American Beverage Association (ABA) is planning to cut the amount of calories in beverages by 2025. They are determined to provide consumers with more choices, smaller portions and fewer calories as well as promote bottled water. This gradual change is founded by the American Heart Association and the Clinton Foundation to promote healthy eating habits in children.

Although this will gradually make drinks a little more healthy by cutting the amount of sugar, this is not reliable. The reason customers are so addicted to these drinks is because of its quality of flavor. Even though the association is planning on cutting calorie intake, it does not imply that the soda are any healthier. Many other ingredients in beverages like soda can harm one’s body in the long term.

According to Seattle Organic Restaurants, beverages include chemicals such as 4-methylimidazole (4-Mel). In colored sodas such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi, a vast amount of this ingredient can cause cancer. Sodas also contain a high amount of common ingredients like high fructose corn syrup and phosphoric acid.According to Nutrition Research Center, these common ingredients ultimately reduce nutrients from one’s body.

These ABA restrictions will not help us lead healthier lives on their own. People must take the initiative to cut calories and harmful ingredients on their own and seek healthy alternatives for their own benefit.