The British Conservatives rejoiced at the success of one of their amendments on the labelling of vodka. Contrary to the Commission's text, which wanted to reserve this term for spirits made from grain or potatoes, the committee's text also allows for drinks made from molasses (the basis of rum) to be called vodka; the beverage can also be made from other ingredients such as fruit, but this must be mentioned on the label. If more than two ingredients are used, it must be called "blended vodka".

The Environment, Public Health and Food Safety Committee also voted, contrary to the Commission proposal, to ban flavourings of spirits and to have the use of sweeteners mentioned on the bottle label.

Source: EurActive