New Delhi | ENewsXpress
Indias food safety organization the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has made a major decision against several alcohol items limiting the sale of certain rum and whisky choices. According to the organization some companies apparently used “nature-identical” taste materials in rum and whisky while presenting them as normal products, which might trick people.
What Is the Issue?
FSSAI has stated that the flavour and aroma of rum and whisky should naturally develop during the production and maturation process. However, inspections reportedly found that some manufacturers were adding external flavouring agents to recreate these characteristics.
According to the regulator, there is no internationally accepted practice of adding rum flavour to rum or whisky flavour to whisky. Products made using such flavouring should instead be marketed as “flavoured spirits” rather than conventional rum or whisky.
Which Drinks Are Affected?
The action reportedly applies to drinks made at specific factories not to entire brands. The drinks listed include:
- Old Monk The Legend
- Old Monk Gold Reserve
- Old Monk XXX Matured Rum
- McDowells No.1 Rum
- McDowells Celebration Rum
- Bagpiper Deluxe Whisky
- Old Cask Deluxe XXX Rum
- Antiquity Blue Whisky
- Royal Challenge Whisky
- Central Province Whisky
Why Has Old Monk Been Asked About?
FSSAI has reportedly questioned the “7 Years Blended” age claim on Old Monk XXX Matured Rum. According to the organization the amount of rum in the drink was found to be less than 5%, which makes people wonder if the label might trick customers about how long the drink was aged.
Companies Respond
Some of the affected companies have challenged the FSSAI’s order in court. They maintain that their manufacturing practices and product labelling comply with prevailing industry standards.The legal cases are still going on.
What Does This Mean for People Who Buy Alcohol?
Industry specialists say the action is mainly about labels and product quality rules. The goal is to make sure people get drinks that match the descriptions and claims on the labels.
Summary
FSSAIs decision is seen as a move to improve openness people knowing more and quality rules in Indias alcohol industry. The organization may also look at companies as the investigations continue.
Note: The regulatory action applies to drinks made at certain places and does not mean a total ban, on the whole Old Monk, McDowells or other brands mentioned. Legal cases and regulatory reviews are still happening.
