🔥 Trending FSSAI Bans Old Monk and Other Liquors Over Artificial Flavoring

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recently (as of August 2026) issued a ban on the sale of specific variants of popular liquor brands, including Old Monk rum, Royal Challenge whisky, Bagpiper whisky, and Antiquity Blue whisky ¹²³. This action stems from laboratory tests that detected the presence of artificial or nature-identical flavouring agents in these products, which is a violation of India's food safety and labelling regulations ¹⁷⁸⁹.

Details of the Ban and Affected Brands

The FSSAI's decision targets particular variants rather than entire brand portfolios. For instance, three variants of Old Monk rum manufactured by Mohan Rocky Springwater in Maharashtra are affected: Old Monk The Legend, Old Monk Gold Reserve, and Old Monk XXX Matured Rum ²³⁵. Similarly, the ban includes Antiquity Blue Whisky, Royal Challenge Whisky, and Bagpiper Whisky ¹³⁷. The regulatory body's scrutiny extends to products from manufacturers such as Diageo India, Inbrew Beverages, and Mohan Rocky Springwater ¹⁰.

Reasons for the FSSAI Action

The primary reason for the ban is the unauthorized use of artificial or nature-identical flavouring in alcoholic beverages ¹⁷. FSSAI regulations stipulate that if a flavouring substance is added to a product, it must be clearly declared on the label. The investigation revealed that these brands either used such flavourings without proper declaration or used them in a manner that violates existing food safety standards ²⁴⁶.

Specifically, the FSSAI's concern revolves around the potential for misleading consumers and ensuring that all ingredients are transparently communicated. The use of artificial flavours without proper disclosure can be seen as a breach of labelling rules, which are designed to protect consumer interests ²⁴.

Industry Response and Future Implications

Diageo India, one of the affected manufacturers, has reportedly challenged the FSSAI's order in the Bombay High Court ². This suggests a potential legal battle over the interpretation and enforcement of flavouring regulations in the Indian alcoholic beverage industry.

This move by the FSSAI signifies a broader regulatory push to ensure compliance with food safety and labelling standards within the drinks sector ¹. It highlights the increasing scrutiny on manufacturers to adhere to ingredient disclosure requirements and to avoid the undeclared use of artificial additives. The outcome of these actions could lead to changes in how alcoholic beverages are formulated and labelled in India, potentially impacting product development and marketing strategies for many brands.