This study investigates the coverage of federally mandated information on over-the-counter (OTC) drugs labels by electronic article surveillance (EAS) tags applied to the exterior of cartons. Using adult-strength analgesics containing acetaminophen as a case study, researchers investigated the issue in Houston, TX (24 stores) and Lansing MA (33 stores). The information obscured by EAS tags was identified and classified for a total of 849 packages using a standardised data collection instrument. The results indicated that 293 packages examined (34.5%) had information mandated by the US FDA fully or partially obscured by the EAS tags. Retailers and manufacturers should be aware of such practices to reduce potential liability. Recommendations for improving EAS tag usage on OTC products are presented.
