Akankshya Mukherjee(intern@imaws.org)
According to the FSSAI, bulk imports of alcoholic beverages into India will be scrutinized under sub-regulation 1.3.9 of the FSS (Alcoholic Beverages) Regulations, 2018, which establishes the highest limit of alcohol in an alcoholic beverage and safety standards.
The FSSAI ruled that such consignments be scrutinised exclusively for safety parameters stipulated in the FSS Act and rules, with the upper limit of alcohol not being applicable on bulk consignments.
The food authority issued an order stating “It is clarified that such consignments may be scrutinised against sub-regulation 1.3.9 of FSS (Alcoholic Beverages) Regulations, 2018, wherein the upper limit of alcohol shall not apply and only safety parameters shall be tested along with other labelling requirements”.
“Alcoholic beverages shall be packed in suitable containers as specified in the packaging regulations: provided that bulk containers shall have no upper limit for alcohol content and shall meet the safety parameters of the product standards. Such items must also bear a label that states for the manufacturing of alcoholic beverages only” states sub-regulation 1.3.9 of the Alcoholic Beverage Regulation.
