The French National Assembly has voted in favor of a ban on unlimited refills of sugary drinks at fast food chains and stores, as part of its efforts to tackle growing obesity levels.
The ban would be applicable on all soda "fountains" at public places.
The law aims to cut down consumption of sugary drinks, which are perceived to be primary contributor to the growing obesity levels.
The amendment to the health law states: "It is the role of the law to fix a framework to protect the population against commercial competition which aims to make something free to entice customers and encourage them to consume unhealthy products excessively."
The amendment was put forward by UDI MP Arnaud Richard and it found support from the country's Health Minister Marisol Touraine.
Touraine was quoted by Thelocal.fr as saying: "This habit is common in other countries and it is increasingly taking hold in France. I understand it can be attractive for young people who are offered unlimited sugary drinks, which contain an excessive amount of sugar or sweeteners".
The government later plans to publish a list of soft drinks that would be banned. This bill will now have to be approved by the Senate before it becomes a law.
