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We all are well aware that alcohol consumption is very harmful for health. But, if chemicals and artificial flavors are added to this liquor without permission, then it becomes even more deadly and dangerous for the human body. Now taking cognizance of this serious matter, the country’s top food regulatory body Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken a big and strict step against liquor manufacturers.
The authority has given public information through its official Instagram post that FSSAI has issued show-cause notices to several liquor manufacturers for violating the rules. These companies are allegedly accused of adding unauthorized flavors to liquor and making misleading and false claims related to the aging of the product. The regulator has sought a stern explanation from all these companies as to why punitive action should not be taken against them for ignoring the rules.
Under which rules is the liquor industry measured?
According to the official statement issued by FSSAI, this action has been taken due to violation of stringent provisions laid down under the Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) Regulations, 2018. This notice has been sent to all major Food Business Operators (FBOs) and liquor companies licensed under the FSS Act, 2006, who are engaged in the manufacturing and packaging of alcoholic beverages in India.
These 3 big and serious irregularities were caught in the investigation
The regulatory body’s investigation has revealed three major tactics used by liquor companies to mislead consumers and compromise standards:
1. Chemical in the name of genuine: Adding flavors without permission (Added Flavors)
Investigation found that some companies Rum, Brandy, Gin, Malt/Grain Whiskey, Wine and Beer Artificial and foreign flavors are being added to the product, which mimic the natural taste of the product.
What the rules say: FSSAI standards clearly state that these alcoholic beverages should have only their original, natural taste and aroma. It is a legal offense to imitate the taste through external chemicals or flavours.
2. False pride on the bottle: Misleading Age Claims
Often, people fond of premium wine and whiskey pay expensive prices based on the age written on the bottle (eg 12 years old, 18 years old). But some companies are violating the Alcoholic Beverages Regulations, 2018. Regulation 1.3.7 They were using heavy words, synonyms or indirect signs indicating age on their bottles without strictly following the guidelines. These unauthorized claims are like directly robbing the consumers’ pockets.
3. Hiding the truth about ‘Blend Age’
In the liquor industry, spirits made in different years are often blended to create a final product. The rule is that if a product is labeled as ‘Aged’, the manufacturer must clearly declare that the age stated is the age used in the blend. youngest spirit Is of. By hiding this fact, the companies were assuring the consumers that all the liquor is of the same age, which is completely misleading.
FSSAI’s ultimatum: Will have to face severe punishment
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has directed all concerned companies receiving the notice to ensure compliance with all regulatory rules of FSSAI in letter and spirit with immediate effect. Along with this, they will have to submit a written explanation within a certain time limit that FSS Act, 2006 Why legal action should not be initiated against them under IPC like canceling license or imposing heavy fine. This step of the government has created a stir among the liquor mafias involved in adulteration and misleading advertisements.