Old Monk fans may soon notice something different about their favourite rum. The iconic Indian rum brand is set to change its bottle labels after FSSAI raised concerns over its labelling and product composition. Mohan Meakin, the maker of Old Monk, has agreed to modify the labels following regulatory scrutiny, including over the claim “7 years old blended” on its XXX Rum variant. Scroll on to know more about this.
What Will Change On Old Monk Bottles?
According to India Today, the development comes after the Bombay High Court refused to grant immediate relief against restrictions imposed on the sale of certain Old Monk products in Maharashtra.
As per FSSAI, the claim was misleading because the blend primarily contained neutral, unmatured spirit, while the matured rum component accounted for less than 5% of the blend. Under the applicable rules, an age claim for a blend is based on the youngest spirit in it.
While the iconic Old Monk bottle may continue to look familiar, one phrase long associated with the brand could soon disappear from its label — the “7 years old blended” claim on its XXX Rum variant.
Also Read: 8 Bizarre Facts About Old Monk That Reveal The Wild History Behind India’s Favourite Rum
Why Did FSSAI Raise Concerns?
The issue goes beyond just the age claim. FSSAI had raised concerns about added flavouring agents, product composition and labelling practices in certain alcoholic beverage variants.
The regulator’s scrutiny resulted in restrictions on the sale of select liquor products in Maharashtra, including certain Old Monk variants. The Bombay High Court has now declined to provide interim relief, while the manufacturer has agreed to make changes to its labels.
Now, if you’re wondering whether this means their familiar Old Monk will taste different, the current development is primarily about labelling and compliance. The manufacturer has agreed to modify the bottle labels in response to the regulatory concerns.
So, for now, the biggest visible change is likely to be what appears on the bottle, rather than a confirmed change to the drinking experience itself.
Let us know your thoughts on this in the comments.
Cover Image Courtesy: Pixabay
FAQs
Why is Old Monk changing its bottle labels?
Old Monk maker Mohan Meakin has agreed to revise its bottle labels following FSSAI scrutiny over the product’s composition, flavouring and ageing-related claims.
Why did FSSAI object to the “7 years old blended” claim?
FSSAI said the product contained predominantly neutral, unmatured spirit, while matured rum accounted for less than 5% of the blend. The regulator said age declarations for blends should reflect the youngest spirit used.
Will the changes affect the taste of Old Monk?
The current development is primarily about labelling and regulatory compliance. There has been no confirmation that the label changes themselves will alter the taste of the product.