FSSAI says some IMFL products contain artificial or nature-identical flavours that resemble rum or whisky but are still marketed simply as “rum” or “whisky”. According to the food regulator, this could mislead consumers about what the product actually contains.
The Bombay High Court will on Monday hear petitions filed by leading liquor manufacturers challenging the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)’s action that has effectively halted the sale of several Indian-Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) products over labelling and manufacturing concerns.
Among the companies that have moved the court are United Spirits, maker of McDowell’s No. 1, and Mohan Meakin, known for their Old Monk rum. They have challenged FSSAI’s recent orders, which object to the way certain rum and whisky products are labelled and the use of added flavouring in their manufacture.
WHAT IS THE DISPUTE?
FSSAI says some IMFL products contain artificial or nature-identical flavours that resemble rum or whisky but are still marketed simply as “rum” or “whisky.” According to the food regulator, this could mislead consumers about what the product actually contains.
The authority argues that such products should instead carry labels like “rum-flavoured spirit” or “whisky-flavoured spirit” to accurately reflect their composition.
FSSAI has also objected to labels carrying claims such as “matured in cask” when a significant portion of the alcohol consists of neutral spirit that has not undergone ageing. It says any age statement on the label should be based on the youngest spirit used in the blend.
WHAT HAPPENED IN COURT?
Hearing the matter on Friday, a bench of Acting Chief Justice Ravindra Ghuge and Justice Gautam Ankhad observed that an abrupt industry-wide halt in sales could have far-reaching consequences.
“We agree that everything can’t be shut down overnight,” the bench remarked, while noting that the dispute affects manufacturers, distributors and consumers across the liquor industry.
At the same time, the court clarified that it was not for judges to decide technical questions relating to how alcoholic spirits should be manufactured, tested or marketed.
The bench directed Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh to appear at the next hearing after obtaining instructions from FSSAI, and posted the matter for Monday.
