New York City's groundbreaking limit on the size of sugar-laden drinks has been struck down by a judge shortly before it
was set to take effect.

The restriction was supposed to start Tuesday.

Manhattan state Supreme Court Justice Milton Tingling writes that loopholes ``effectively defeat the stated purpose'' of the rule.

The rule prohibits selling non-diet soda and some other sugary beverages in containers bigger than 16 ounces.

It applies at places ranging from pizzerias to sports stadiums, though not at supermarkets or convenience stores.

City officials say the limit will curb obesity by making it easy for people to stop at 16 ounces (a half litre) of high-calorie
drinks.

The beverage industry and other opponents say it's a nanny-type measure that will hurt businesses.