Legislators in Hawaii are moving on from proposals to add warning labels on certain beverages.  These misguided warning labels would display messages concerning obesity and diabetes on beverages with as few as five calories – the same amount of calories as a stick of sugar-free chewing gum.

The truth is, misguided warning labels on certain sugar-sweetened beverages – but not on other more caloric foods and beverages – confuse consumers about the causes of diabetes and obesity.  Government data shows that consumption of sugars in soda and other sugar-sweetened beverages has been on the decline for more than a decade, while diabetes and obesity rates continue to increase.  Something isn’t adding up.

These regulations unfairly single out one industry and do nothing to combat health issues in Hawaii or anywhere else in the nation.  If we want to get serious about obesity, it starts with meaningful education – not misleading warning labels.

Hawaii knows that there are better ways to help make people healthy – and we agree.  Our member companies are empowering consumers to make the choices that are right for them, and encouraging them to adopt an active and balanced lifestyle.

For more information, visit YourCartYourChoice.com and DeliveringChoices.org.