Alcohol 101: Alcohol Industry "Prevention" Materials: Public Service or PR ploy?

It's suspect when alcohol producers promote the message of "moderation"...

Are industry sponsored "prevention" materials really a public service or just a promotion in disguise? Rarely do industry-sponsored publications address the environmental factors and policy changes that have the most impact on alcohol-related problems. It's suspect when alcohol producers promote the message of "moderation" to consumers who are some of their most important markets: under-age youth, binge drinkers and people with a genetic predisposition to alcoholism. Consider these questions when deciding whether your school or organization should use alcohol industry materials:

. Will using the materials compromise your integrity as a prevention organization in any way?

. Can using the material be misinterpreted as a tacit endorsement of its alcohol industry sponsor?

. Is their logo, brand or name on the materials you plan to distribute?

. Are there any images that send a mixed message? For example, a father with a beer mug discussing "responsible drinking" with his son.

. Will you be uncomfortable if they use your name or logo on self-congratulatory public relations materials?

If you answered "yes" to any of the above, you may want to seek alcohol prevention materials with no connection to the industry.