Update on Labeling Policy
By Judy Harrison (202) 927-8450

ATF has been asked to further clarify our policy, which was previously published in this newsletter in February 2001, on the use of the term "lively" on still wine labels. To view the update in its entirety, visit the ATF website http://www.atf.gov/ press/industry/fy02/040502labelingupdate.htm.

The updated language appears as follows. "…Alcohol Labeling and Formulation Division (ALFD) has determined that the term "lively," which was previously prohibited completely from appearing on the label of still wines, will now be permitted on still wines, provided that it is not used in such a way that it is likely to mislead consumers to believe that the wine is effervescent, or is a substitute for effervescent wine. Each use of the term "lively" on a still wine label will be examined on a case-by-case basis."

ALFD is happy to answer any questions or respond to any comments. Please do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 1-866-927-2533 or contact us via email at alfd@atfhq.atf.treas.gov. q

Sulfite Declaration Guidelines
By Adam Krautheim (202) 927-8140

The Alcohol Labeling and Formulation Division (ALFD) would like to take this opportunity to remind you of the label requirements for the sulfite declaration. At a minimum, any alcohol beverage which contains 10 or more parts per million of sulfur dioxide must be labeled with one of the following three statements required by 27 CFR Parts 4, 5 and 7: "Contains Sulfites" or "Contains (a) sulfiting agent(s)" or a statement identifying the specific sulfiting agent. Any further statement related to the sulfite warning must be in addition to one of the previously stated requirements. Please note any additional sulfite information will be evaluated individually by ATF to determine whether it satisfies the requirements of 27 CFR.

ALFD has received a number of applications where the word "Sulfites" is misspelled as "Sulphites." Please note, "Sulfites" is the only accepted spelling of the word in this instance. If you have any questions, please contact the ALFD Customer Service Team at (202) 927-8140, toll free (866) 927 ALFD (2533) or by e-mail at alfd@atfhq.atf.treas.gov. q

The Alcohol Labeling and Formulation Division (ALFD) has observed an increase in the number of "Black and Tan" malt beverage labels that fail to comply with our labeling guidelines. "Black and Tan" is a malt beverage product composed of two (2) classes of malt beverages. The class and type designation is the names of the two classes of malt beverages in conjunction with "Black and Tan," e.g., "Black and Tan, Stout and Ale." If either class contributes less than 40% of the volume of the malt beverage, the percentage of each class must be shown, e.g., "Black and Tan, 70% Stout and 30% Ale."

ALFD has identified two recurring problems pertaining to the labeling of "Black and Tan" malt beverages. We have received labels for "Black and Tans" that do not identify the two classes of malt beverages. We have also received labels for "Black and Tan" that are made with only one class of malt beverage. ALFD will not approve any label for "Black and Tan" that does not comply with the guidelines outlined in this article. If you have any questions regarding this matter, please contact ALFD Customer Service at (202) 927-8140, toll free (866) 927-ALFD (2533) or by email at alfd@atfhq.atf.treas.gov. q