(CBS News) New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg shrugged off criticism of his controversial public health initiatives, saying that "if government's purpose isn't to improve the health and longevity of its citizens, I don't know what its purpose is."

Bloomberg most recently put forth a plan to ban the sale of sugary drinks larger than 16 ounces from the city's eateries, street carts and stadiums.

The proposal has been sharply criticized, in some cases by beverage and fast food companies as a case of government overreach.

He's also been criticized for previous efforts to, among other things, ban smoking in public places and the use of trans-fats in restaurant foods. Some have gone so far as to mock has as being like a "nanny."

But on "CBS This Morning," Bloomberg fired back, saying, "We're not here to tell anybody what to do. But we certainly have an obligation to tell them what's the best science and best medicine says is in their interest.

Bloomberg group dangles $9M for ways to aid city life

"If you want to smoke, I think it's pretty ridiculous, you shouldn't. But I don't think we should take away your right to smoke."

Bloomberg pointed out that life expectancy iin New York City exceeds the national average by three years, noting that all the progress has come since he took office a decade ago.

He brushed aside all the attention the proposed ban has gotten, saying, "That's just because it's the story of the week. That'll get blended into lots of other things."

Bloomberg applauded the efforts of some companies that "really understand," such as Coca-Cola, Pepsi and Disney.

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Bloomberg fires back at "nanny" critics: It's part of government's role