Experts are calling out the alcohol industry for dragging its heels on mandated pregnancy warning labels, after new research revealed that one in five alcohol products still don't carry the warning - despite being given four years to do so.
The study by The George Institute for Global Health, published in Health Promotion International, analysed more than 12,500 alcohol products sold in major Australian outlets in 2023 and 2024. It found that while the proportion of products displaying warnings improved from 63% in 2023 to 78% in 2024, thousands of products remain without the warning, putting unborn babies at risk.
The warnings were introduced to ensure consumers understand that drinking while pregnant can cause lifelong harm to unborn children, including foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). Businesses were given a generous three-year transition period ending July 2023 to implement the requirement.
"You've had four years to get this right. This is a simple thing to do and many products now have the label. The ones that haven't? They're often those with the highest alcohol content that can be most dangerous for unborn babies.
By:Professor Simone Pettigrew
Head of Health Promotion at The George Institute for Global Health and Professor at UNSW Sydney
The study also found:
• Spirits had the lowest labelling rate (just 66% in 2024), followed by wine (75%).
• Imported products and single-unit items were less likely to display warnings.
• Most warnings were hidden on the back or bottom of packaging, with only 1% on the front.
Researchers said the findings show the industry is failing to meet its responsibilities:
"Warnings can save lives, but not when they're hidden on the back or bottom of packs or missing altogether. We need stronger rules and enforcement to protect babies, not industry profits.
By:Professor Pettigrew
They say the Government must tighten regulations by requiring front-of-pack placement, applying the warning label requirement to products on shelves (not packaging dates) and enforcing penalties for non-adherence.
About the study:
The research was funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council and provides critical insights for countries like Ireland and the UK, which are planning similar measures.
