Shock content on packaging — Israel introduces new law
New regulations have come into effect in Israel requiring graphic health warnings covering at least 75% of the packaging of tobacco and nicotine products. The requirements apply to cigarettes, vapes, hookahs, and nicotine pouches. Violators face fines of up to 452,000 shekels.
New legislative norms have come into force in Israel, obliging manufacturers and importers to place graphic images depicting the consequences of smoking on the packaging of all tobacco and nicotine-containing products. The requirements extend to traditional cigarettes, tobacco, vapes, hookahs, and nicotine pouches. Graphic warnings now cover at least 75% of the pack's surface, and they also include contact details for a help hotline. The remaining 25% of the surface must be in a standardized dark brown with an olive tint (Pantone 448C), on which logos and bright elements are prohibited. The design of the images is adapted to cultural and religious sensitivities, excluding images that could trigger strong emotional reactions in people with PTSD. According to the Israel Cancer Association, about 24% of the population smokes (34% among men), and vaping is on the rise among youth. Smoking claims the lives of more than 1,000 Israelis every month. Violations of the rules lead to criminal proceedings and fines of up to 226,000 shekels for individual entrepreneurs and up to 452,000 for legal entities.