For the World Health Organisation (WHO), plain packaging is considered an effective way to reduce the attractiveness of tobacco products and increase the effectiveness of health warnings.
The industry, on the other hand, complains that removing brands from products will eventually lead to the rise of black markets while simultaneously harming businesses in Europe. Citing governments’ data, the tobacco industry also says that the measure has not reduced smoking rates.
Opponents of plain packaging fear that this tobacco-style over-regulation is gradually moving from tobacco to alcohol, sugary drinks and junk food, as a number of countries have taken measures aimed at protecting public health from harmful products.
South Africa, for instance, has banned labelling and brands of infant formula; the EU consumers’ organisation asks for a “cartoons ban” for products with high sugar content to protect children; Ireland’s alcohol bill “hides” alcohol from customers’ view; there are bans on advertising aimed at children in Canada.
However, it remains unclear what exactly is the fine line between over-regulation such as plain packaging and the need to protect consumers. What is the role of education? What can the industry do?
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Plain packaging: ‘Brand-theft’ or better consumer protection?
The rising trend of imposing plain packaging on unhealthy products has raised eyebrows in the industry, which fears that its brands are under threat. The World Health Organisation, on the other hand, insists that the measure provides a long-term benefit for public health.
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WHO and EU clash with tobacco industry over plain packaging effectiveness
The drive to impose plain packaging on tobacco products, in the hope of discouraging current and potential smokers, has pitted the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the EU against the tobacco industry.
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Freedom of marketing and brands remains vital in the 21st century
When consumers make decisions in the marketplace, they are voting with their wallets, writes Yaël Ossowski.
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Conservative MEP: Plain packaging will not tackle rising obesity
Most people gain weight because of the lifestyle and measures like plain packaging will not provide the solutions we need, conservative MEP Daniel Hannan said.
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EU should protect its brands and legislate to reinforce them, Italian MEP says
The EU should protect its brands as they have a great potential to make Europe competitive worldwide, right-wing MEP Stefano Maullu told EURACTIV.com in the context of the continuing 'branding versus consumer welfare' debate.