The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has dramatically altered everyday life for many Americans. As countless people reshuffle their daily schedules, work from home, and manage kids home from closed schools, businesses across the country are stepping up in several incredible ways.
In addition to school districts offering free meals to families in need and restaurants shifting to purely takeout services, distilleries in the US are shifting gears and creating hand sanitizer from the alcohol they have on-hand and giving it away for free. While this is a noble effort, it is important for both distilleries and the public to know that hand sanitizer produced in this manner may be somewhat effective, it may not meet applicable regulations. Although, most distilleries are following a recommended recipe by the World Health Organization.
A More Sensible Solution Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic
While it’s honorable of alcohol-producing companies to strive to contribute toward emergency relief efforts across the country, it may be more realistic for these establishments to shift their focus toward making their own sanitation products that meet applicable standards. The average craft beer distillery may not possess the equipment and materials required to produce sanitary products that meet all applicable regulations. Those that can properly prepare hand sanitizer for consumers and health care professionals will not have to worry about the FDA taking action against them during this epidemic.
Alcohol distilleries in Atlanta, Portland, rural Georgia, and North Carolina are shifting their operations in an effort to provide the public with the sanitation products they need to slow the spread of COVID-19. Labeling is an important consideration for this effort, so if you think your business can contribute to the fight against the spread of the coronavirus, keep a few things in mind. All hands on deck.
The Importance of Labeling for Distilleries and Craft Beer Brewers During the Crisis
First, your labels will need to indicate the ingredients used in the production of your hand sanitizer and other products, and it will also need to indicate that the product has not been fully reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration and other relevant government agencies. It is essential for businesses to refrain from making unfounded claims about their products, especially during a crisis situation like this.
Take time to ensure your labels are accurate, represent the new product you have made in a concise, readable, and truthful way, and provide consumers with all the information they need to make an informed decision about using your product. Manufacturers must continue to hold to their responsibility to provide their customers with safe, effective, and accurately labeled products for the duration of the pandemic.
If you have questions about labeling new sanitation products or want to develop new labels for your products, contact Century Label. We continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and will follow all applicable guidance from the government as we continue to serve our customers to the best of our ability.
