February 29,1996. Copyright 1996, Graphic News. All rights reserved.

EU experts say size does matter
By Nick Booth

London, February 29, Graphic News- The European Union is taking unity to new lengths Ð condoms must now be at least 170mm (6.7 inches) long to earn the EU stamp of approval.
   ÔIf it's not long enough, you can endanger the health of the consumer,Õ Suzanne Larque, of the European Committee for Standardization, said on Wednesday. The EU has set a new size standard for condoms sold throughout 18 European countries.
   Testing will be standardized to ensure the safety of condoms, used to prevent pregnancy and the transmission of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. They must be filled with water to check for holes, and mechanically stretched and inflated to test strength.
   The guidelines probably will be in force by the end of the year in all 15 EU nations, as well as Norway, Liechtenstein and Iceland, Ms. Larque said.
   Under the new European Standard Ð EN 600 Ð the width of Euro-condoms can vary from between 44mm and 56mm with a minimum length of 170mm (1.75 to 2.25 inches with a minimum length of 6.7 inches). 
To some member states even these specifications may appear modest. Some condoms currently manufactured in Europe stretch to 200mm (7.3 inches) in length. Ms. Larque said the rules would still allow for some variety in shapes, designs and colours.
   The committee has already set standards for 2,500 products and plans directives on 9,000 others.

Source: Associated Press