Package labeling changes proposed

The Treasury Department is considering a rule that would require companies to put alcoholic content, serving sizes and nutritional information on all alcoholic drink packaging.

According to the proposed rule, labels on all alcoholic beverages would include a statement of the drink’s percentage of alcohol by volume. The labels would also include a “serving facts” panel, which would quantify the calories, carbohydrates, fat and protein for a standard serving size.

Currently, liquor and wine labels must include at least the percentage of alcohol by volume, but that information is not allowed on beer labels except in states that require it. However, if a brewer wants its beer to be labeled as “light,” the label must show its caloric content and the percent of alcohol by volume.