UK Government Plans for Alcohol Drinks Labeling Sparking Controversy

While the UK government is proposing mandatory labeling on all alcoholic beverages in light of a failure by the industry to do so voluntarily; some are arguing much more must be done to battle underage drinking.

The UK’s Echo News posted a report citing one brewery boss who believes labeling is not the answer. James Partridge, of the Crouch Vale Brewery, in South Woodham Ferrers, said: “Our products have the mandatory facts on them, such as the number of units they contain, the volume, and what’s inside.

We also have a bit of a blurb describing the tasting notes for the product, plus allergy and contact information. We would trust our customers to be fully informed of the health risks of drinking. The Government is applying a very broad brush to an industry that is extremely broad itself.”

A report for the Department of Health showed that just 15 percent of drinks actually provide enough information and health warnings, despite a voluntary agreement between the drinks industry and the government in 2007. The industry now faces the potential of mandatory labeling.

Partridge believes the approach should be in changing parental attitudes, not the drinks industry. He notes that the typical 16 year old does not buy eight bottles of real ale, but instead goes for the strong, cheaper products. Targeting companies such as his misses the point, he says.

According to Basildon and East Thurrock MP Angela Smith, any labeling should focus on the units system. “One thing people need to understand is how long it takes for a unit to pass through the body. It is difficult because it’s not an exact science, and it does depend on different factors for different people. Most people want that information and want to make those decisions themselves.”