TTB Efficiency with Wendy Raymond of Taps and Snaps
Episode Overview
The world of alcohol production is exciting, but it comes with a complex web of regulations from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). For breweries, distilleries, and other producers, staying compliant is crucial to avoid costly delays and penalties.
In a recent episode of the Get Hoptimized podcast, host Chris sat down with Wendy Raymond, founder of Taps and Snaps and a seasoned TTB compliance consultant, to shed light on these critical issues.
Connect with Taps and Snaps today to streamline your TTB compliance! Visit their website at tapsandsnaps.com or find them on Meta, Instagram and LinkedIn
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Navigating TTB Regulations: Expert Advice from Taps and Snaps
The world of alcohol production is exciting, but it comes with a complex web of regulations from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). For breweries, distilleries, and other producers, staying compliant is crucial to avoid costly delays and penalties. In a recent episode of the Get Optimized podcast, host Chris sat down with Wendy Raymond, founder of Taps and Snaps and a seasoned TTB compliance consultant, to shed light on these critical issues.
Common TTB Compliance Pitfalls to Avoid
Wendy Raymond, with over a decade of experience, highlighted several recurring errors that can trip up even the most enthusiastic producers:
Inconsistent Labeling and Graphic Design: Many new producers work with multiple graphic designers, leading to inconsistencies in government warnings and other mandatory label information. This can result in rejection and delays. [Link to a blog post about label design best practices]
Ignoring State-Specific Regulations: TTB regulations are federal, but each state has its own set of rules. What works in Florida might not work in Wisconsin. Always verify state-specific requirements. [Link to a resource on state alcohol regulations]
Missing Formula Requirements: Ingredients like terpene extracts, increasingly popular in brews, often require specific formulas to be filed with the TTB. Failing to submit these can cause significant hold-ups.
Underestimating Account Setup Time: Bringing on new staff who need to file with the TTB? Be aware that setting up their TTB Permits Online accounts can take two weeks or more. Plan well in advance to prevent last-minute rushes.
Neglecting Ownership Change Filings: Even minor changes in ownership, such as a managing partner leaving, necessitate refiling with the TTB. Overlooking this can lead to severe consequences, including temporary shutdowns.
What's on the Horizon for TTB Regulations?
The regulatory landscape is ever-evolving. Wendy shared insights into potential upcoming changes that producers should monitor:
Serving Fact Alcohol Facts Panels: The TTB has been considering proposals for mandatory "serving fact alcohol facts" panels on labels. These would detail calories, fats, carbs, proteins, and ounces of pure alcohol per serving. While this could be a significant change for label design, a five-year grace period is being discussed, along with a potential increase in ABV tolerance (plus or minus 1%) to assist smaller producers with calculations.
Online Reporting Improvements: The TTB is actively working to streamline the reporting process with online forms that include self-calculations and helpful guides, aiming to improve accuracy and efficiency.
Navigating COLAs and Category Differences
The Certificate of Label Approval (COLA) is a critical step for many producers. Wendy emphasized understanding when a federal COLA is required (typically for products crossing state lines) versus state-only submissions. She also touched on the nuanced differences in regulations across various alcohol categories:
Spirits vs. Beer: While spirits have very specific definitions for categories (e.g., bourbon, scotch), beer regulations offer more stylistic variations. However, a universal rule across all categories is the prohibition of using language on labels that implies physical actions (e.g., "knock your socks off").
THC Beverages: Currently regulated at the state level, the future of federal oversight for THC beverages, especially as more brewers enter this market, remains an interesting development to watch.
Wendy's Golden Rule: Plan Before You Brew
Perhaps the most crucial piece of advice from Wendy Raymond is simple: Do not brew until you have your products approved. The excitement of creating a new product can lead producers to jump the gun, but brewing before receiving COLA or formula approval can result in significant financial losses, wasted product, and storage issues. A 40-day approval process is not uncommon, making pre-planning essential.
Need Expert TTB Guidance?
The complexities of TTB regulations can be overwhelming. If you're a brewery, distillery, or other alcohol producer looking for expert guidance, Wendy Raymond and Taps and Snaps can help. They offer tailored consulting services to ensure your compliance journey is as smooth and efficient as possible, allowing you to focus on what you do best – crafting exceptional beverages.
Connect with Taps and Snaps today to streamline your TTB compliance!
Visit their website at Taps and Snaps or find them on LinkedIn and Instagram