A consumer group wants the Food and Drug Administration to require soft drink makers to reduce high-fructose corn syrup and other sweeteners from beverages.  The Center for Science in the Public Interest filed a petition yesterday.  The group charges the sweeteners are causing high obesity rates and health problems. 

The petition comes as health advocates, such as New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, try to curb soft drink consumption.  A spokeswoman for the FDA say the petition has been received and the agency will directly reply to the petitioner.  No time frame has been given.