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The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) recently informed the Bombay High Court that Old Monk, a popular rum brand, cannot be classified as rum due to its composition, which includes neutral spirit and rum flavoring. FSSAI’s counsel stated that the product should not be marketed as rum but could instead be labeled as a “rum-flavored spirit.”

This decision follows complaints about the accuracy of Old Monk’s labeling, particularly concerning a claim that the beverage is "7 years old blended." FSSAI posits that the bulk of Old Monk consists of neutral, unmatured spirit, with only a slight percentage of matured rum included. The Bombay High Court raised concerns about whether the "7 years old blended" description could mislead consumers regarding the aging process of the entire product.

Mohan Meakin, the manufacturer of Old Monk, has submitted revised labels for review after agreeing to eliminate the "7 years old blended" claim and enhance the visibility of added flavor information. FSSAI has requested more time to evaluate these new labels, with the next court hearing scheduled for September 11.

The controversy also leads to broader implications as FSSAI has issued sales prohibitions on various products from several manufacturers, including Mohan Rocky Springwater and United Spirits. Notably impacted brands include Old Monk rum variants, McDowell’s No.1 Rum, and several whiskies.

For additional insights about this ruling, visit FSSAI clarification.