Oversized, sugary drinks are to be banned in New York's restaurants, concession stands and other eateries, Belfast Telegraph reported.

The regulation passed by New York City's health board puts a 16-ounce (453-gram) size limit on cups and bottles of non-diet soda, sweetened teas and other calorie-packed beverages.

The ban will apply in fast-food shops, cinemas and Broadway theatres, workplace cafeterias and most other places selling prepared food.

It does not cover supermarkets or most convenience stores.

Officials say the ban is necessary to combat a deadly obesity epidemic.

The restaurant and beverage industries have attacked the plan as misguided. They say health experts are exaggerating the role sugary beverages have played in making Americans fat.

Some New Yorkers have also ridiculed the rule as a gross government intrusion.