‘FSSAI’ big blow to liquor companies! Use of unauthorized flavors in whiskey, beer; Notice to many big brands

• ‘FSSAI’ big blow to liquor companies!
• Use of unauthorized flavors in whiskey, beer
• Notice to many big brands

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated major action against many liquor manufacturing companies. The regulator has issued ‘show cause’ notices to several companies for using unauthorized flavors and making misleading claims about the age of the product in liquor types such as rum, whisky, vodka and beer. FSSAI has made it clear that if the companies do not rectify these lapses immediately, strict legal action will be taken against them under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

In a statement on social media platform ‘X’, FSSAI said notices have been issued to liquor companies for violations, particularly use of flavors and misleading claims about the age of the product. The companies have been asked to explain why action should not be taken against them.

FSSAI’s investigation and technical analysis found that some companies were using synthetic flavors in their products to mimic the natural taste and aroma of whisky, wine and other liquors. The use of such unauthorized flavors not only violates regulations, but also misleads consumers about the true quality of the product, the regulator said.

FSSAI has issued notices to alcoholic beverage manufacturers for alleged non-compliance with regulatory provisions relating to added flavors & misleading age-related claims.
The FBOs have been directed to submit explanation as to why action should not be initiated against them. pic.twitter.com/2Wv6jEfSrf

— FSSAI (@fssaiindia) July 9, 2026

The regulator has also raised serious objections to making claims of “Aged”, “8 years” or “12 years” on liquor bottles. According to the rules, if an age claim is made on a liquor label, it must be based on the youngest spirit (the base ingredient of the liquor) in the blend.

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Investigations revealed that some companies were adding very small amounts of old spirit to the mix and selling the entire bottle as old liquor at a high price. FSSAI considers such labeling to be misleading and violative of norms.

The regulator has asked all the companies concerned to explain why they violated food safety standards. In addition, instructions have also been given to improve the labeling of the relevant batches available in the market or to recall them if necessary.

FSSAI has warned that if the companies’ reply is not found satisfactory, legal action may be initiated against them under the ‘Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006’. Also, severe action may be taken such as imposition of heavy fines, suspension of license or cancellation of license.

FSSAI said its primary responsibility is to ensure the quality of food and beverages and to provide accurate information. Consequently, any kind of misleading labeling or use of unauthorized ingredients will not be tolerated. The objective of the regulatory body is to protect the interests of consumers and maintain transparency in the market.

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