Rwanda Food and Drug Authority has introduced directives for operators in the production, transportation and trade of alcoholic beverages. According to a letter to industry stakeholders signed by Dr.Emile Bienvenu the Director General of FDA, packaging of alcoholic beverages in plastic containers is not allowed for any kind of alcohol. FDA noted that alcohol can only be packaged in ways that are approved by the authorities when the product receives authorization. The packaging of the drinks should clear writing of the nature of product, the producer as well as details of ingredients. With that, producers are not allowed to pack alcohol in packaging of other producer, whether bottles or crates. The authority also noted that vehicles involved in the distribution of alcohol should have the correct documentation which show the source and destination of the products, delivery notes, operational license as well as registration certification from FDA. The authority also warned against any practices that could lead to the contamination of alcohol. Traders and distributors will also be required to only buy their stock from licensed operators as well as have proof of the purchase. In 2021, FDA announced a directive compelling broadcasters and advertisers to seek approval before promoting and advertising regulated products. The regulated products listed include human and veterinary drugs, human and animal vaccines, biological products used in clinical settings as drugs, processed food for humans and animals, food supplements, fortified foods, food fortification, poisonous substances, herbal medicines and medicated cosmetics. Other products include human and veterinary medical devices, tobacco and tobacco products, labels, packages, and raw materials used in the manufacture of regulated products as well as laboratory and cleaning chemicals and pesticides. FDA also conducts regular inspection on the factories of alcoholic beverage producers. For instance, over the New Year festivities, the agency ordered the withdrawal from the Rwandan market of a banana-based alcoholic alcoholic drink called Umuneza, owing to adverse effects associated with its consumption. editor@newtimesrwanda.com
