New Delhi: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to several alcoholic beverage manufacturers for allegedly violating provisions of the Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) Regulations, 2018. The regulator has flagged multiple instances of non-compliance related to product labelling, flavouring practices and age-related claims.
According to the food safety authority, inspections and scrutiny revealed that certain Food Business Operators (FBOs) were using additives and marketing claims that do not conform to the standards prescribed under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
One of the major concerns highlighted by the regulator is the use of added flavours in alcoholic beverages where regulations require products to retain only their inherent taste and aroma. The alleged violations involve products across several categories, including rum, brandy, gin, whisky, wine and beer.
FSSAI also raised objections to promotional claims linked to the age of alcoholic beverages. Officials noted that some manufacturers were using terms, indirect expressions or similar wording suggesting product ageing without fully complying with the relevant regulatory provisions governing such declarations.
Another issue identified by the authority relates to the use of the word “aged” and similar descriptions on product labels. According to FSSAI, in certain cases, the declared age did not accurately represent the youngest spirit used in the final blend, which is a mandatory requirement under existing regulations.
The food regulator has directed the concerned companies to explain the alleged irregularities and demonstrate compliance with the applicable legal framework. Manufacturers have also been asked to clarify why action should not be initiated against them under the Food Safety and Standards Act and the rules framed thereunder.
FSSAI reiterated that accurate labelling and adherence to product standards are essential for maintaining transparency in the food and beverage sector. The regulator said it will continue monitoring compliance to ensure that products available in the market meet the prescribed safety and quality norms.
The notices form part of FSSAI’s ongoing efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight of the alcoholic beverages industry and enforce uniform compliance with national food safety standards. At this stage, the authority has not disclosed the names or the number of companies that have received the notices.
