Key Update

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to several alcoholic beverage manufacturers for alleged violations of the Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) Regulations, 2018. The notices cite the unauthorised use of added flavours, misleading age-related claims, and non-compliance with blend age disclosure requirements.

FSSAI has directed the manufacturers to comply with the regulations and explain why it should not initiate action against them under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

FSSAI Questions Use of Added Flavours

According to FSSAI, inspections and compliance reviews found that some manufacturers used added flavours in alcoholic beverages where the regulations prohibit them. The regulator said these flavouring agents imitate a product’s natural taste and aroma, even though products such as rum, brandy, gin, malt and grain whisky, wine, and beer must possess their genuine natural characteristics without external flavouring.

Regulator Flags Misleading Age Claims

FSSAI also found that some manufacturers used words, synonyms, or indirect expressions suggesting a product’s age without complying with Regulation 13.7 of the Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) Regulations, 2018.

The regulator further stated that when a product carries terms such as “aged” or similar age-related descriptions, the declared age must represent the youngest spirit used in the final blend. Any deviation from this requirement could mislead consumers about the product’s actual maturity.

Manufacturers Asked to Respond

FSSAI has asked the concerned food business operators to submit explanations for the alleged violations and show why it should not initiate regulatory action against them. The regulator announced the notices through its official social media handle as part of its efforts to strengthen compliance with food safety and labelling regulations.

Industry to Hold Consultations with FSSAI

The Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC) said FSSAI has scheduled consultations with industry stakeholders next week to discuss the issues raised in the notices. The industry body maintained that its member companies comply with the applicable FSSAI regulations and guidelines. It added that the consultations would provide an opportunity to address the regulator’s concerns and clarify the issues raised.

Source: Times of India

Mathrubhumi