India's FSSAI issues notices to liquor makers over added flavours, age claims

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has sent formal notices to manufacturers of alcoholic beverages—including rum, brandy, whisky, gin, wine and beer—over alleged use of unauthorised flavouring agents and misleading age‑related labeling. The regulator stated that such drinks must retain only their natural taste and aroma, and any age claim on the label must refer to the youngest spirit in the blend. Companies have been asked to explain why regulatory action should not be taken against them.

In a related enforcement action, FSSAI also served notices to six prominent non‑alcoholic beverage brands—Red Bull, PepsiCo’s Adrenaline Rush and Sting, Reliance Consumer Products’ Campa Energy Drink – Gold Boost, Monster (backed by Coca‑Cola) and Hell Energy—for marketing their products as "energy drinks" without an approved standard. The authority warned that functional or therapeutic claims such as boosting energy or focus are not permissible under the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006.