FSSAI Targets Rum and Whiskey Makers Over Labelling Violations
Old Monk, McDowell’s Among Brands Hit by FSSAI Action: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken action against several liquor manufacturers over misleading labels and the use of artificial flavouring in rum and whiskey.
Popular brands such as Old Monk, McDowell’s, Royal Challenge, Antiquity Blue, and Bagpiper have been affected, leading to supply disruptions in states like Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Some companies have challenged the FSSAI’s action in court.
The FSSAI said that Old Monk’s “7-Year-Old Blended” claim was misleading because the age of a blended spirit must be based on the youngest spirit in the blend, as per existing rules.
The regulator also found that some manufacturers were using Extra Neutral Alcohol (ENA) with added flavouring to imitate the taste and aroma of rum and whiskey.
Based on laboratory reports, the FSSAI has stopped the sale of products from several manufacturing units. Two companies have received conditional relief to sell existing stock while they seek legal relief from the courts.
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