Lindsey Zahn P.C. advises meaderies on TTB permits, state licenses, mead labels and formulas, and FDA rules for meads under 7% alcohol by volume. New and established meaderies get one firm for federal and state requirements.
Mead production has grown significantly, and while many meaderies also make wine and cider, plenty focus solely on mead. Some states issue mead-specific licenses, but TTB has not created a mead-specific federal permit, though it does recognize a mead-specific tax class.
With frequent regulatory changes and few clear rules, choosing the right permit and labeling mead correctly can be challenging. Lindsey Zahn P.C. guides meaderies through both.
How the Firm Helps
- Determine the right federal TTB permit for your business
- Draft and file the federal basic permit application with TTB
- Update and amend TTB permits
- Draft and file state license applications and amendments
- Draft and submit formulas for mead products that require them
- Review labels and represent you during the COLA process
- Advise on FDA labeling for mead under 7% alcohol by volume
- Provide ongoing compliance guidance
Process and Timeline
- Plan the right structure. The firm maps your products and sales plans to the federal permit and state licenses you need.
- Federal permit. The firm prepares and files the federal basic winery permit with TTB.
- State licensing. The firm prepares the state license, including New York State Liquor Authority filings for New York businesses.
- Formulas and labels. Before launch, the firm handles formulas, label review, and COLAs so products can ship on time.
Federal and state applications can often be prepared in parallel. Plan for agency review on both before your opening or launch date, and file labels and formulas once your permits are on track.
Recent Representations
- Handled federal permitting and state licensing for a new meadery
- Reviewed a label for an imported mead under 7% alcohol by volume and advised on mandatory FDA statements
- Reviewed mead formulas and drafted formula applications for TTB
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does TTB have a mead permit?
No. TTB has not created a mead-specific federal permit, though it recognizes a mead-specific tax class. The right permit depends on your operation.
Does the firm work with businesses outside New York?
Yes. TTB and FDA requirements apply nationwide, and the firm represents clients across the United States on federal matters. It handles New York State Liquor Authority filings directly and advises on other states’ rules as your distribution grows.