Notice to Beverage Company

FSSAI Issues Notice to Alcoholic Beverage Manufacturers Over Regulatory Violations

New Delhi

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to Food Business Operators (FBOs) manufacturing alcoholic beverages after identifying multiple violations of the Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) Regulations, 2018. The action aims to ensure truthful labelling, product authenticity, and regulatory compliance across the alcoholic beverage industry.

Key Non-Compliances Identified

1. Unauthorized Use of Added Flavours

FSSAI found that certain manufacturers were using added flavours to imitate the natural taste and aroma of alcoholic beverages such as Rum, Brandy, Gin, Malt/Grain Whisky, Wine, and Beer. Under the regulations, these beverages must possess only their genuine and natural characteristic flavour and aroma, making such additions non-compliant.

2. Misleading Age-Related Claims

The regulator observed that some companies were making unauthorized age-related claims by using words, synonyms, or indirect expressions suggesting product age without complying with Regulation 1.3.7 of the Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) Regulations, 2018. Such claims may mislead consumers regarding the maturity and quality of the product.

3. Incorrect Blend Age Disclosure

FSSAI also noted that products carrying the term "Aged" or similar age declarations failed to ensure that the declared age represented the youngest spirit used in the blend, which is a mandatory regulatory requirement.

Regulatory Action

FSSAI has directed the concerned manufacturers to:

Immediately ensure compliance with the applicable regulations.
Submit an explanation on why action should not be initiated under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the Rules and Regulations framed thereunder.

The enforcement action reinforces FSSAI's commitment to:

Protecting consumers from misleading product claims.
Ensuring authenticity of alcoholic beverages.
Promoting transparent labelling and fair market practices.
Strengthening compliance within the alcoholic beverage industry.