Labelling the risk: Developing international Codex Alimentarius standards to support effective alcohol warning and labelling laws

Alcohol is a psychoactive substance that can lead to dependence and is a leading contributor to global disease and death, including at least seven types of cancer. Despite these risks, most alcoholic beverages remain exempt from the basic labelling requirements applied to foods and non-alcoholic drinks. This leaves consumers unaware of key information such as energy content, ingredients and health risks. Labelling is an evidence-based measure to inform the public and help reduce alcohol harm. However, countries introducing alcohol labelling laws often face legal challenges, particularly under World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. This article explores how developing international alcohol labelling standards through the Codex Alimentarius Commission can help countries defend their national labelling laws against WTO disputes, and details Eurocare’s efforts to advance the development of such standards.