The manufacturer of Old Monk rum, Mohan Meakin, has decided to change the labels on its bottles in response to scrutiny from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This decision follows concerns raised by the food safety regulator regarding the ingredients and ageing claims associated with certain liquor products. The developments have also impacted the sale of various liquor brands within the state of Maharashtra.

Mohan Meakin sought legal recourse at the Bombay High Court after the FSSAI issued notices that halted the sale of Old Monk in Maharashtra. The FSSAI expressed concerns that Old Monk predominantly relied on neutral spirits combined with artificial flavourings rather than using naturally fermented sugarcane spirit. Furthermore, the regulatory body questioned the legitimacy of claims stating that the rum was “seven years old blended.”

Judicial Ruling and Compliance Measures

To address the regulatory dispute and restore sales, Mohan Meakin has agreed to eliminate ageing-related claims from its labels. The company will also clearly indicate the presence of added flavourings on all future bottles. As part of the proceedings, the Bombay High Court has instructed Mohan Meakin to submit a redesigned sample label for review by September.

Despite the agreement to change labels, it is important to note that there is currently no interim order on the FSSAI’s instructions prohibiting the sale of Old Monk. The situation remains under review as the company prepares to implement the necessary changes.

The scrutiny by FSSAI has not been limited to Old Monk alone; several other liquor brands are also facing similar examinations. This broader investigation raises questions about compliance in the liquor manufacturing sector.

Wider Impact on the Liquor Industry

In recent developments, FSSAI has prohibited the sale of specific variants from various well-known liquor brands, including Old Monk, Antiquity Blue Whisky, Royal Challenge Whisky, and Bagpiper Deluxe Whisky. This action follows findings that revealed these products contained artificial flavourings that did not meet the established manufacturing standards, as reported by Reuters.

FSSAI’s examinations indicated that some products produced by companies. These include Diageo India’s United Spirits and Inbrew Beverages employed external artificial or nature-identical flavours. The manufacturer has used these flavourings to replicate the taste and aroma typical of alcoholic beverages, steering away from reliance on natural ingredients and proper maturation techniques.

The impact of these regulatory measures serves as a pivotal moment for the Indian liquor industry, prompting manufacturers to reassess their production methods and ensure adherence to standards. The future compliance of these brands will play a significant role in shaping sector norms and consumer expectations.

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