Glass Packaging Institute applauds regulation change

The Arlington, Virginia-based Glass Packaging Institute (GPI) says a federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) decision to approve the use of glass containers for mixed drink-type alcoholic beverages in single-serving (12-ounce and similar) sizes provides glass with access to a new market.

The change could result in the presence of more glass in municipal curbside recycling bins and in mixes of recyclables collected from restaurants and taverns. GPI runs a “Don’t Trash Glass” program designed to help restaurant and tavern managers have access to glass recycling service.

“This decision marks a pivotal moment for consumers, the glass packaging industry and the broader spirits market,” says Scott DeFife, president of GPI of the regulatory change that takes effect this Jan. 10.

“The TTB’s decision to modernize older regulations that had previously limited packaging options for certain spirits-based products acknowledges the importance of innovation, consumer choice and environmental sustainability,” continues DeFife. “It ensures a level playing field for all packaging materials. This ruling will allow domestic glass manufacturers to serve this growing market.”

GPI refers to glass containers as Glass being “renowned for their durability, recyclability and premium aesthetic.” The trade group says glass bottles are an “option that aligns with consumer preferences and environmental goals.” Aluminum cans typically are easy to recycle in the United States.

Historically, , says GPI, the 12-ounce or 355-milliliter (ml) size for spirits-based products was restricted to metal (predominantly aluminum) containers. GPI and its member companies had long advocated for elimination of the restriction, which the institute says hindered glass manufacturers’ ability to compete and limited brands’ packaging options.

The market is a growing one, says GPI. “Demand for spirits-based ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails has surged in recent years, with sales increasing by 226 percent between 2016 and 2021,” states the group.

Adds GPI, “The TTB’s updated standards will enable producers to better meet this growing demand by offering their products in glass containers, a material that not only distinguishes brands but also contributes to reducing consumer confusion between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.”

GPI says it also commends the TTB for recognizing the need for packaging flexibility across other container sizes, including 187 ml (6.3 ounces) and 250 ml (8.5 ounces).

“We applaud the TTB and the Treasury Department for fostering a competitive marketplace that supports innovation and sustainability,” says DeFife. “There was widespread bipartisan support for this decision, and we appreciate that the agency took the time to investigate these issues and remove the restrictions for spirits-based products to benefit from the unique qualities of glass packaging.”