PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Sara Ribakove, Representative of Center for Science in the Public Interest on Intro 641
2:31:07
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124 sec
Sara Ribakove from the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) strongly supports Intro 641, which aims to ensure healthy food options are available on kids' menus in restaurants. She presents data on childhood obesity in New York City and highlights overwhelming public support for the proposed policy.
- CSPI's survey found 86% of caregivers support requiring 2 kids' meals to meet nutrition standards.
- Ribakove emphasizes the importance of offering healthier beverage options like unflavored, nonfat, or low-fat milk instead of flavored or higher-fat options.
- She cites examples of similar legislation in Maryland counties and urges New York City to join the movement to improve children's nutrition and health.
Sara Ribakove
2:31:07
Thank you.
2:31:08
Hello.
2:31:09
My name is Sarah Rybakov and I'm here with the Center For Science in the Public Interest.
2:31:14
CSPI strongly supports Intra 641.
2:31:17
CSPI has long worked to achieve our vision of a healthy population with a reduced impact and burden of preventable disease and an equitable food system that makes healthy, sustainable food accessible for all.
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A 2020 study found that 20.9% of children in New York City's K through 8 public schools had obesity.
2:31:39
Bill 641 will support the health of New York City's children by making sure healthy food options are available on kids' menus and restaurants.
2:31:47
This policy has overwhelming support from New York City residents.
2:31:51
A CSPI commissioned survey in April found that specifically 86% of caregivers of children ages 13 and younger support a policy requiring 2 kids' meals to meet nutrition standards.
2:32:07
Kids' menu items at chain restaurants are frequently high in saturated fat and sodium compared to recommended limits.
2:32:15
The 2020 dietary guidelines for Americans recommend that children reduce intake of added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium as overconsumption of foods high in these nutrients can increase risk for diet related disease.
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For example, it is important to offer unflavored, nonfat, or low fat milk instead of flavored milk and 2% or whole milk because of the extra added sugar and saturated fat found in these options.
2:32:41
Advocates have turned to public policy to make progress in this space.
2:32:45
3 counties in Maryland have passed legislation requiring restaurants with children's menus to serve a kid's meal that meets nutrition standards.
2:32:54
We urge New York City to join this growing movement and continue its work to improve the nutrition and overall health of children.
2:33:00
By passing this legislation, you can increase the availability of healthy foods at restaurants, encourage children to form healthy eating habits, and support caregivers' efforts to feed their children well.
2:33:11
Thank you.
