Liquor companies may ask FSSAI for standard for desi single malt
Indian liquor-makers are eyeing the food and beverages regulator FSSAI, with a view to get it to formulate separate standards for desi single malt (whisky).
Liquor companies may ask FSSAI for standard for desi single malt
The reason behind this decision is the segment's rapid growth and its recognition in global markets. Today, Indian single malt whiskies are exported to 60 countries and have won anumber of prestigious global awards.
According to an industry body representing domestic liquor manufacturers, the Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC), establishing a separate standard will ensure the reputation and authenticity of Indian single malts is maintained. Now there's a proper demand for these whiskies, including quality products and the premiumisation tsunami being witnessed across the globe, with increasing demand for top-end alcoholic beverages.
Even Indian liquor manufacturers are pursuing a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Indian single malt whisky. It adds as a certificate of genuineness to the product and even boosts the price of the product on national and multinational levels. Well, this endeavour is along the lines of how the industry is aiming to make homegrown Indian liquor brands to be on the world map of products that are more than International quality.
The Indian single malt whisky segment has been growing at an estimated annual consumption of around 30%. The increase is due to the demand for high-end alcohol by consumers. That growth within the segment alsoties into efforts from India overall to position the country as an exporter of quality alcoholic beverages.Indian liquor manufacturers want to differentiate desi single malt from all other types of whisky by seeking specific standards from the FSSAI. This would guarantee quality and authenticity; also, it would further increase its appeal among worldwide consumers.
Indian alcoholic beverage market is on the upswing, and the proposed standards can be a key milestone in positioning Indian single malts as a premium offering in the international market. This move is expected by stakeholders to not only add to the credibility of Indian single malts but also promote further innovation inthe sector.
Discussions with FSSAI are expected to continue in the upcoming months, as the industry works together to keep Indian single malts at the forefront of global premium whisky market.
