Cigarette Labels Banned in Canada

Canadian tobacco companies can no longer sell their cigarettes as "mild" or "light." The decision was announced August 13 and is expected to have a significant effect on the tobacco industry. Half of Canada's three million smokers prefer mild and light cigarettes because they believe these brands are better for them. However, studies show that most smokers compensate for lower nicotine and tar levels by smoking more and even tearing cigarette filters. In a letter to tobacco companies, Canadian Health Minister Allan Rock asks them to voluntarily remove the words "mild" and "light" from packaging or else face legislation to assure their compliance.Xinhua News Service, August 14, 2001