World No Tobacco Day says get ready for plain packaging

The department said it was committed to following them examples set by other countries doing away with the use of logos, colours, brand images and promotional information on packaging.

The department said said South Africa's still has a way to go to fall in line with the recommendations of the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Dr Yussuf Saloojee from the National Council Against Smoking (NCAS) said cigarette boxes were like a wolf in sheep's clothing.

"If you look at a cigarette package...they are in beautiful colours. Blue and green and red and yellow and very beautiful. They make young people think smoking is clever, smoking is smart and young people are attracted...it looks innocent, but what it does is it gets young people to start using a poison which will kill them," Salojee said.

The WHO said the introduction of plain (standardised) packaging of tobacco products can save lives by reducing demand for tobacco products.

"Plain packaging of tobacco products restricts or prohibits the use of logos, colours, brand images and promotional information on packaging other than brand and product names displayed in a standard colour and font style," it said in a statement.

In December 2012, Australia became the first country to fully implement plain packaging. On 20 May 2016, France and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland each began implementation of plain packaging. Ireland is also preparing to introduce the measure, while other countries are exploring the option.

"Plain packaging reduces the attractiveness of tobacco products. It kills the glamour, which is appropriate for a product that kills people," said WHO Director-General Dr Margaret Chan. 

"It restricts tobacco advertising and promotion. It limits misleading packaging and labelling. And it increases the effectiveness of health warnings."