Home.Scientific Services Division.Nonbeverage Products Laboratory:Specially Denatured Alcohol (SDA)

Laboratory - Scientific Services Division

Nonbeverage Products Laboratory

Specially Denatured Alcohol (SDA)

SDA is alcohol to which denaturing materials have been added. Title 27 Code of Federal Regulations part 21 lists all the SDA formulas authorized by TTB. Manufacturers may use SDA in the manufacture of any product that is not intended for consumption. Generally, SDA is used in cosmetic products but its use extends to pharmaceuticals, chemical manufacturing, and products where SDA is the solvent or reactant.

Process for Using SDA:

  • Obtain a permit from the National Revenue Center at 513-684-3335 to purchase SDA from a distilled spirits plant.
  • Complete a formula application, TTB Form 5150.19, Formula and/or Process for Article Made with Specially Denatured Spirits.
  • Submit completed form, along with a 4 ounce sample of the finished product to:

    Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau
    Nonbeverage Products Laboratory
    6000 Ammendale Road
    Beltsville, MD 20705-1250

  • Approval process takes approximately three weeks.
  • The formula must be approved prior to manufacture.
  • Direct any techincal questions to Tomika Moore at 240-264-1588.