The Treasury Department has unveiled two new proposed rules for labeling on wine, distilled spirits, and malt beverages. The rules, announced recently, aim to standardize the information available on alcohol labels by requiring the listing of alcohol content and nutritional information per serving. In addition, the labels would need to notify consumers of potential allergens. These changes align with the bureau's mandate to enhance consumer awareness and safety.
For years, companies have had the option to provide this information voluntarily. A survey conducted by the Beer Institute in August 2021 revealed that 95% of beer volume sold by top producers already featured voluntarily provided nutrition information. However, the new proposals intend to make these disclosures mandatory, ensuring consistency across the industry. The updated guidelines are expected to be finalized later this year, with the rules taking effect five years after final approval.
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau is actively seeking public comment on these proposals, accepting feedback through April 16. The introduction of an "alcohol facts" box on labels would detail alcohol content, calories, carbohydrates, fat, and protein per serving. This initiative aims to help consumers make informed choices, adhere to health guidelines, and avoid allergic reactions.
“The proposals represent a momentous step toward ensuring consumers have access to the information they need to make informed choices, follow health guidelines and avoid allergic reactions,” – CSPI officials
The current guidelines recommend that women consume one drink or fewer per day, while men should limit their intake to two or fewer. This shift towards more informative labeling is the second significant change announced for alcohol labels as the Biden administration draws to a close.
The Wine Institute has shown support for digital labels that would convey the necessary information electronically.
“Given the unique nature of winemaking, the most accurate and least burdensome approach to providing nutrition information to consumers would be to allow the option of off-label disclosure via QR code or other electronic means,” – The Wine Institute
Similarly, the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States has suggested using QR codes or website references to provide consumers with access to this information. Advocacy groups have underscored the necessity for a mandatory policy to ensure all consumers receive consistent information.
“underscoring the need for a mandatory policy” – Advocates
