Beer labels regulations: between rules and creativity

When it comes to brewing beer, there are certain rules that must be strictly followed.

There are numerous laws that regulate the production and labeling of beer.

If you’re planning to launch your own microbrewery or craft brewery, these rules may seem like a daunting challenge, at least at first glance.

But this is not the case, in fact, they prove to be extremely useful.

For this reason, we want to provide you with a document containing everything you need to know about the complicated world of regulations in this field.

Read on to learn more about how these laws affect or could affect your local liquor store.

You will also find an in-depth look at the types of labels that can be produced.

Now, let's get into the specifics of some factors.

Packaging and labelling requirements for alcoholic beverages

The packaging and labeling of alcoholic beverages are obviously regulated by Italian law.

The law requires that each bottle of beer be accompanied by a label showing the name and address of the producer, the alcohol content, nutritional information and the production method.

It is essential that it is indicated whether the beer contains allergens , such as phosphatides, wheat proteins or yeast.

According to the law, ingredients must be listed in decreasing order of weight, while allergens must be listed immediately after the ingredients and in bold to attract attention.

Other label requirements for brewers

What you may not know is that beer producers not only have to follow what has been said so far, there are other requirements that must be respected.

For example, beers that contain more than 2.5% ABV (alcohol by volume) must have an alcohol content label .

Finally, all beers marketed in the United States must have a label with an expiration date or the term "consume before" preceding the expiration date.

Storage conditions and/or conditions of use must be included to prevent any alterations to the product.

Remember to always include the location of production and packaging.

Creativity

Let's not forget that designing a beer label can also be a good way to develop creative flair .

In fact, while respecting what has been specified up to this point, it is possible to create unique and original compositions that will certainly have a good response in terms of product appreciation.

It is not uncommon to find labels generated for individual campaigns, perhaps at certain times of the year or to accompany some particular corporate event.

The more creativity is found within these labels, the more attention a customer will tend to give to them.

Even in this case, however, it is important to follow certain graphic rules that will allow you to generate an objectively pleasant effect.

An example is not to overlap elements in order to ensure clear readability.

Materials

It may be helpful to remember that most beers are served “ice cold.”

They may be stored at very cold temperatures for a prolonged period of time, this requires some resistance .

For this reason, a careful selection of the most suitable materials must be carried out.

Environmental label

Especially in these years in which we are particularly sensitive to the issue of environmental sustainability , those who enter information for environmental labelling must also include instructions for carrying out correct waste separation .