Alcohol causes an estimated 23,000 deaths annually in France, and about one in 10 French people are considered alcoholics. Health officials say doctors need more training on detecting excessive drinking by patients and that laws against alcohol sales to those under age 16 should be strictly enforced; they also called on the recovering community to set up support networks for problem drinkers.

Herve Chabalier said the intent of the report was to show people that alcohol is a drug. But the proposal to use wine labels to warn pregnant women not to drink has sparked controversy. "You are trying to create an atmosphere of fear," said Roland Feredj of the Bordeaux Wine Trade Council.

Added Marie-Christine Tarby from the Vin et Societe: "It's ridiculous. This would reduce alcohol to the same as cigarettes, whereas the two are completely different. If you drink alcohol in moderation, you face no risks to your health. There are even benefits."

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