Alcoholic Beverage Labeling Concerns Spark Public Debate

None by Eric Ray

(KCPW News) A proposed rule to regulate labeling of alcoholic beverages in Utah, specifically energy drinks containing alcohol, was put to public scrutiny today at a hearing in front of the state's Alcoholic Beverage Commission. The rule would force distributors of alcoholic beverages to submit product labels to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control for approval before it could be sold in Utah.

Jim Olsen, President of the Utah Food Industry Association, says the rule would force distributors to create unique labels for products shipped only to Utah. He says the cost of the label change could prohibit distributors from selling their product in Utah.

Darrell Bingham, a juvenile counselor and former Orem city police officer, says the label changes are needed so that it is obvious to store clerks, police officers and parents that the beverages contain alcohol.

Others at today's hearing were concerned the rule's language was written too broadly to include products that are widely recognized through brand names as containing alcohol. Following the meeting, the commission passed a motion to draft legislation and turn the matter over to lawmakers come January.

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