What is required on a malt beverage label?
In Texas, the malt beverage industry thrives due to the state's love for diverse flavors and unique concoctions. However, for those looking to introduce their product to the market, understanding liquor laws in Texas, especially in terms of labeling, is crucial.
Primary Information Required
When producing a malt beverage, certain essential details must be prominently featured on the label. These details should be present within the same field of vision on one label. They include:
Brand Name: This primarily refers to the brand under which the beverage is being sold.
Class or Type: Here, you specify whether it's an ale, stout, lager, or any other classification. Alternatively, you can use a statement of composition.
Bottler's or Importer's Information: It's important to mention the name and address of the bottler or the importer.
Net Contents: This signifies the quantity of the beverage in the bottle or can.
Health Warning Statement: Texas liquor license mandates the inclusion of a health warning statement on the label, cautioning about the risks of consuming alcohol.
Alcohol Content: If your malt beverage has any alcohol derived from added non-beverage flavors or ingredients (other than hops extract), its alcohol content must be mentioned. Although it's optional under federal law for other malt beverages, many states, including Texas, require it.
Ingredient Disclosure: In cases where certain ingredients need declaration, this too should be present on the label.
Country of Origin: For imported malt beverages, indicating the country of origin is essential.
Now, if you find these requirements overwhelming, it's beneficial to consult legal sources to ensure adherence to the liquor laws in Texas. There's also an intriguing discussion on malt beverage label requirements on Wine Spectator.