Last updated: December 5, 2023

Health Warnings/Messages Features

Type of product: Smoked Tobacco Products
Type of Warnings / Messages Required
Pictures (Photos), Text Warnings/Messages
Location and Size of Warnings / Messages on Unit Packaging
85% of Front, 85% of Back
Rotation
Required
Number of Warnings / Messages Authorized to Be Displayed at Any Given Time
1
Length of Rotation Period
Specified - 12 months
Analysis

The textual and pictorial components of the health warning together cover 85% of the front and back panels of the tobacco product package, with 25% dedicated to text and 60% dedicated to the picture. There is one photo for the first 12-month rotation period, and another photo for the second 12-month rotation period. The resolution and intensity of color also are prescribed by the rules.

The text of the warning is required in white font color on a red background, and the quitline information is required in white font color on a black background. Above the text, a pictorial depiction of the ill effects of tobacco use on health is mandated by the rules.

The health warning must be located on the top edge of the package. The width of the warning cannot be less than 3.5 centimeters, and the height cannot be less than 4 centimeters.

These provisions meet FCTC Art. 11 and align with the FCTC Art. 11 Guidelines with respect to warning size, location, and rotation.

Type of product: Smokeless Tobacco Products
Type of Warnings / Messages Required
Pictures (Photos), Text Warnings/Messages
Location and Size of Warnings / Messages on Unit Packaging
85% of Front, 85% of Back
Rotation
Required
Number of Warnings / Messages Authorized to Be Displayed at Any Given Time
1
Length of Rotation Period
Specified - 12 months
Analysis

The textual and pictorial components of the health warning together cover 85% of the front and back panels of the tobacco product package, with 25% dedicated to text and 60% dedicated to the picture. There is one photo for the first 12-month rotation period, and another photo for the second 12-month rotation period. The resolution and intensity of color also are prescribed by the rules.

The text of the warning is required in white font color on a red background, and the quitline information is required in white font color on a black background. Above the text, a pictorial depiction of the ill effects of tobacco use on health is mandated by the rules.

The health warning must be located on the top edge of the package. The width of the warning cannot be less than 3.5 centimeters, and the height cannot be less than 4 centimeters.

These provisions meet FCTC Art. 11 and align with the FCTC Art. 11 Guidelines with respect to warning size, location, and rotation.