Labeling

Information about beverage alcohol directed at the general population is often provided in the form of labeling on packaging and advertisements.  The purpose of such information is to raise awareness among consumers about how much they are drinking and about potential risk for harm.  Beverage alcohol labeling may convey information about alcohol content, drink sizes and amounts, or may be in the form of health warnings.  In some countries, labeling is mandated, in others it may be voluntary.

• Key Facts and Issues
• Further Resources
• Table: Health Warning Labels

ICAP Blue Book
Practical Guides for Alcohol Policy
and Prevention Approaches

The ICAP Blue Book offers a comprehensive guide to the key issues in alcohol policy development, and an integrated approach to prevention. It draws upon the best available research and experience from around the world.

As a policy guide, the ICAP Blue Book is based on three principles:

drinking patterns and their outcomes as a sound scientific basis for policy development;

targeted interventions that address specific "at-risk" populations, potentially harmful contexts and drinking patterns;

partnerships that allow the inclusion of the public and private sectors, the community and civil society all working towards a common goal.

It is intended as a tool to assist those seeking guidance in developing policy and prevention approaches, be they governments, intergovernmental organizations, public health officials and specialists, researchers, non-governmental organizations, the beverage alcohol industry and its related bodies, or civil society organizations interested in alcohol policy development.

Click here for the entire ICAP Blue Book.

Related Blue Book Modules include:

Drinking Guidelines (128 KB .pdf), Standard Drinks (121 KB .pdf).