New legislation will see Ireland introduce warning labels on alcohol in a world first.
The health measure has been signed into law by Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly. It is expected that the legislation will come into effect by May 22 2026.
The Minister for Health explained that labels will give details of the health risks associated with alcohol. The links to liver disease and cancer will be flagged on products, while advice against consuming alcohol while pregnant will also be visible.
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Mr Donnelly confirmed on Twitter: "Ireland is to become the first country in the world to introduce comprehensive health warning labels on alcohol products. I've signed the regulations so that from May 2026 labels must contain details of calorie content, grams of alcohol and risks of liver disease and cancer."
Alcohol Action Ireland applauded the government for their health-based decision. They said the measure came about after over a decade of tireless campaigning from public health advocates.
Alcohol Action Ireland stated on Twitter: "Very pleased to note that Minister Stephen Donnelly has signed into law regulations in relation to health information labelling of alcohol products. This is a significant step in alcohol policy and for the consumer's right to know the risks from alcohol."
It is understood the three year deadline has been granted to give businesses time to adapt to the new regulations. All alcohol products will be sold with a text-based label informing consumers of the potential health risks.
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