In a groundbreaking move, Ireland is set to become the first nation to enforce comprehensive health warnings on alcoholic beverages. The new legislation, slated to take effect in three years, will mandate labels on alcohol products that caution consumers about the heightened risk of liver disease and certain life-threatening cancers. Additionally, sellers will be required to alert buyers about the dangers of consuming alcohol during pregnancy, while also disclosing the calorie content and alcohol volume of each beverage.
“Packaging of other food and drink products already contains health information and, where appropriate, health warnings. This law is bringing alcohol products into line with that,” Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said in a statement.
According to the annual Healthy Ireland survey commissioned by the government, 79 percent of respondents were unaware of the increased risk of breast cancer associated with surpassing recommended alcohol consumption levels. Additionally, 60 percent were unaware of the risks of bowel cancer, and 7 percent erroneously believed that consuming small amounts of alcohol during pregnancy was safe.
Rachel Morrogh, director of advocacy at the Irish Cancer Society, commended the move, stating, “Today’s announcement shows that once again, Ireland is trailblazing in the area of public health legislation. Signing the labeling regulations into law is a clear statement that reducing preventable disease is a priority for the Government.”
However, the new labeling requirements have triggered concerns from several of Ireland’s major trading partners, who have expressed their grievances to the European Union. Nine EU member states, including France, have voiced unfavorable opinions on the matter.
Trade groups representing alcohol sellers in the European Union have also lodged formal complaints with the EU. The European Committee of Wine Companies and the group spiritsEUROPE acknowledge their support for Ireland’s efforts to combat alcohol abuse but argue that the new regulations would impose excessive burdens on businesses.