In a recent development, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced amendments to the existing regulations governing alcoholic beverages. This move comes as part of their ongoing efforts to ensure food safety and quality standards in the country. The FSSAI, through a notification published on the 21st of August, 2023, has unveiled the Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) First Amendment Regulations, 2023 which describes significant changes to alcoholic beverage rules and regulations.
Background and Consultation Process
The precursor to these new regulations was the draft of the Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) Amendment Regulations, 2022. This draft was made public in accordance with the provisions of section 92(1) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The public was invited to share their objections and suggestions within a sixty-day window from the date of publication, as detailed in the notification of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India with reference number F. No. Std/SP-21/T(Alcohol-4), dated the 17th of May, 2022. The availability of the notification in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part III, Section 4, was made effective on the 20th of May, 2022.
The Outcome: Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) First Amendment Regulations, 2023
Taking into account the feedback and recommendations received from the public, the FSSAI has exercised its authority as granted by clause (v) of sub-section (2) of section 92 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. This has led to the creation of the Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) First Amendment Regulations, 2023, which introduces key changes to the existing Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) Regulations, 2018.
Key Amendments Introduced
Single Malt and Single Grain Whisky Definitions: Part 2 of the amended regulations focuses on the definition of different types of whisky. Notably, the definition of single malt whisky has been revised. It now refers to a distillate obtained from fermented mash that exclusively uses malted barley without the addition of any other grain.
This whisky must also be distilled in a pot still and produced within a single distillery. Additionally, the new regulations introduce the concept of single-grain whisky, which involves a distillate obtained from a fermented mash using malted or unmalted grain. However, this category specifically excludes single malt whisky, blended malt whisky, and blended grain whisky.
Nutritional Information on Labels: Part 5 of the regulations deals with labeling requirements. One of the significant changes pertains to the declaration of nutritional information on labels. The amendment states that alcoholic beverages shall not contain any nutritional information on the label, except for the energy content expressed in kilocalories (kcal). However, the declaration of energy content remains voluntary.
Effective Date and Implementation
The Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) First Amendment Regulations, 2023, are slated to come into effect from the 1st of March, 2024. This transition period allows manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to adapt to the new labeling requirements and definitions.
Conclusion
The FSSAI’s dedication to enhancing food safety and quality standards in India is evident in its continuous efforts to refine regulations and ensure consumer protection. The Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) First Amendment Regulations, 2023, mark a step forward in aligning regulations with evolving industry practices while prioritizing transparency and information for consumers. As the implementation date approaches, stakeholders in the alcoholic beverage sector are advised to familiarize themselves with these amendments to ensure compliance and a seamless transition.
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