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European Union
In 2001, a directive of the European Parliament and Council concerning the use of health warnings on cigarette packages became law. European Commission (EC) member states were required to display text warnings that covered a minimum of 30% of the "front" and 40% of the "back" of packages. The size on the "back" must be 45% for member states with two official languages and 50% for member states with three official languages. The EC has also provided its 27 member states with an optional series of 42 pictorial warnings. Belgium was the first country to implement the pictorial warnings on packages, beginning in April 2007, followed by several other member states.
The EC directive also prohibits the terms "light" and "mild" from appearing on packages.
As well, the EC directive requires tar, nicotine, and carbon monoxide emission numbers to appear on the side of packages. These emission numbers are generated using the ISO machine smoking method.
For more on the labelling practices in the EU, click here to access EU's labelling page.
Library of Picture Warnings Developed for EU Member States: 2004-present**
Other Warnings used in Testing and Development**
** The images contained in this gallery are subject to EU copyright laws. Any duplication, reproduction, or use without the express consent of said party is prohibited. Countries should be contacted individually for usage of images.
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