I’m just lumping these two in together, although they’re unrelated.
A Canadian study on consumer perceptions and cigarette packaging has led the researchers to conclude:
In addition to broadening the list of prohibited words on packs, the removal of color and other design elements—so-called ‘plain packaging’—may also be required to eliminate misleading information from packaging. Plain packaging would standardize the appearance of packages by requiring the removal of all brand imagery, including corporate logos and trademarks. Packages would display a standard background color and manufacturers would be permitted to print only the brand name in a mandated size, font and position. Research to date suggests that plain packages are less attractive and engaging and may reduce brand appeal, particularly among youth. Plain packaging may also enhance the effectiveness of health warnings by increasing their noticeability and believability. To date, plain packaging regulations have been considered in several jurisdictions, but have yet to be adopted.
[Citations to figures and references removed for clarity]
People may not die from smoking anymore, but they may be bored to death if the nannies have their way.
In another study, it is found that smokeless tobacco is relatively safe. Pretty surprising… I wonder what they’ll find if they look into electronic cigarettes? But, by then, it will already be a heavily regulated industry with no hope of turning around.
links via PhysOrg
5:01 pm on July 29, 2009
