Hard seltzers have surged in popularity over the past few years, appealing to consumers who prioritize flavor variety, low-calorie options, and modern branding. But behind the bubbly trend lies a complex regulatory framework that every producer must navigate—especially when it comes to labeling. Whether you’re a startup brewery or a seasoned alcohol beverage company diversifying […]
For alcohol producers, understanding the roles of the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) and the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (“TTB”) is critical. While both agencies play a part in ensuring the safety, quality, and labeling of alcohol beverage products, their areas of oversight differ. The FDA primarily regulates food safety and non-alcohol
What the FDA Regulates vs. What the TTB Regulates: Key Differences for Alcohol Producers Read More »
In the dynamic and highly regulated world of food and beverage production, ensuring compliance with federal laws is a cornerstone of successful operations. Among the key players in the regulatory landscape, the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) stands out as a pivotal agency that safeguards public health. While many alcohol producers—such as wineries, breweries, distilleries,
Understanding the FDA: A Comprehensive Guide for Food and Alcohol Producers Read More »
In recent years, alcohol-infused foods—such as rum cakes, alcohol ice cream, and even beer-infused chocolates—have gained popularity among consumers. These innovative products offer a unique culinary experience, combining the flavors of alcohol beverages with delicious food items. However, businesses producing these products must navigate a complex web of federal and state laws, regulations, and compliance
Navigating the Complexities of Alcohol-Infused Foods: Laws and Regulations Read More »
What is Alcohol-Removed Wine and How is it Regulated? Alcohol-removed wine is an increasingly popular beverage option that caters to consumers seeking a wine-like experience without the alcohol content. Often marketed as a healthier or more mindful alternative to traditional wine, alcohol-removed wine allows individuals to enjoy the flavors, aromas, and textures of wine while
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What is Prior Notice? Prior Notice is a mandatory notification to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) that a food shipment is entering the United States. This requirement applies to all commercial imports of food and beverages, including alcohol beverages and samples. For alcohol beverage importers, filing Prior Notice is a crucial step that
As the demand for more health forward beverages continues to rise, wine companies are increasingly turning their attention to a new category of wines: alcohol-removed or dealcoholized wines. With consumers increasingly mindful of their alcohol consumption and caloric intake, these wines offer a compelling alternative for those seeking the taste of wine without the higher
The trend towards lower alcohol wines is gaining momentum in the consumer market, offering a welcome alternative to higher alcohol content wines while preserving flavor. For individuals seeking a more health-conscious or moderate drinking option, these lower alcohol wines are proving to be a popular choice. However, in the quest to market these wines, companies
We often receive inquiries about whether the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) has control over alcohol beverage products. This is a pertinent question, and the answer is not always straightforward. The FDA’s jurisdiction over alcohol beverage products depends on the type of product and the specific circumstances. For instance, the FDA can have labeling jurisdiction
When browsing aisles of food products in the grocery stores and other food specialty stores, it is not uncommon to come across food labels that contain errors and fail to comply with the U.S. federal regulations governing food products. Many labels have at least one mistake that goes unnoticed to the supplier. Here are some
What are the Most Common Mistakes on FDA Food Labels? Read More »