USE OF PLASTIC CONTAINERS
FOR PACKAGING WINE
Proprietors of bonded wine cellars,
taxpaid wine bottling houses,
importers, and others concerned:
Purpose. The purpose of this circular is to inform you that we are conducting
a study of the effects on wine packaged in plastic containers. Such study will
necessitate your submission of samples of wine and plastic containers to the Bureau
for analysis, if you intend to use plastic containers for packaging or importing
wine.
Background. A study was conducted prior to our approval of a trial period
for plastic liquor bottles; however, we have no experience or analytical data with
respect to plastics as a container for wine. Since there are significant differences in the basic properties of distilled spirits and wine and because of our
concern with consumer protection, the Bureau is investigating the possibility of
the introduction of materials beyond authorized limitations by the extraction of
such materials from container walls.
Submission of Samples and Related Data. Prior to the use of plastic containers
for packaging wine or the importation of such, the following should be submitted
for appropriate analysis:
1. A statement of composition of the plastic compound to
be used including any additives (such as stabilizers or
plasticizers) used therein, including the percentage of
each, and reference to the particular section and
paragraph number of the Food and Drug Administration
regulations under which the materials are approved.
2. A 24-ounce sample, or larger, in glass, of wine which
has not been in contact with a plastic container.
3. A 24-ounce sample, or larger, of the same wine packaged in a
plastic container, with the date of packaging clearly
indicated.
4. Six empty plastic containers.
Inquiries and Samples. Inquiries regarding this circular should refer to
its number and be addressed to the Director, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and
Firearms, Washington, D. C. 20226., Attention ATF:RI. Samples should also be
submitted to the Director, but to the Attention of ATF:TSC.
![Rex Davis](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090117210743im_/http://ttb.gov/images/rex_davis.jpg)
Rex D. Davis
Director |