The City and County of Denver may require restaurants to offer non-sugary drinks such as sparkling water or unflavored milk or milk substitute to be served with children’s meals.
The council will discuss the proposed ordinance, sponsored by members Chris Hinds and Serena Gonzales Guttierez, at the March 6 Business, Arts, Workforce and Aviation Committee meeting. There also will be a public hearing on the issue. The public will be able to speak for 15 minutes.
The ordinance aims to improve the health of Denver children, according to city staff. “Menus shall only list healthy beverages in conjunction with children’s meals,” according to a presentation from city staff to the City Council. “Employees shall not offer beverages with added sugar to children while taking food orders from customers.”
The ordinance does not prohibit children or their parents from ordering soda if they choose. The ordinance only would apply to restaurants that offer bundled children’s meals. According to a restaurant assessment conducted by the city in 2018-2019, about half of Denver County restaurants offer children’s meals with drinks. Of those, 89% offer sugary drinks, according to the assessment.