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Fighting Obesity, City Launches Healthy Eating Campaign In The Bronx

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – The city has launched a new eating campaign in the Bronx that promotes healthy consumer choices at grocery stores in order to crack down on obesity.

The program, called The Shop Healthy NYC Initiative, encourages simple changes on the part of sellers,  such as moving fresh produce to the front of stores, changing signs to highlight nutritious choices and minimizing the stock of junk food, WCBS 880's Jim Smith reported.

WCBS 880's Jim Smith Reports

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The introduction of the program in Fordham and West Farms comes after the New York City Health Department said 70 percent of Bronx residents are overweight.

Currently running as a pilot program in 80 stores, Shop Healthy NYC hopes to expand to 150 Bronx groceries and bodegas.

Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Linda Gibbs called the program "the most innovative, comprehensive community healthy food initiative in the nation."

So far, many residents have been receptive to the program, reported 1010 WINS' Stan Brooks.

1010 WINS' Stan Brooks With More On The Story

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"I think it is a good campaign to eat healthy, especially younger people," said one shopper. "We have an obesity rate among the younger people for eating just sweety, fatty foods."

The launch of the pilot program was accompanied by the introduction of a new booklet entitled "Cut the Junk," which promotes healthy food choices as a way of saving money.

Pending the success of the Shop Healthy NYC in the Bronx, the initiative may run citywide.

What do you think about the initiative? Should it go citywide? Share your thoughts below...

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