Belgium opposes EU plan to label wines under six percent alcohol as “Low Alcohol”
Belgium argues the proposed EU wine labelling rule could mislead consumers and normalize alcohol consumption among vulnerable groups.
BELGIUM – Belgium has voiced strong opposition to proposed European Union regulations that would allow wines with up to six per cent alcohol to be labelled as “low alcohol.”
The country’s Department of Public Health stated that the measure risks misleading citizens and promoting alcohol consumption.
The proposed rule, part of the ongoing revision of European wine regulations, has been approved by all EU member states except Belgium. It would apply to wines with an alcohol level comparable to standard beers.
According to Belgium’s health department, the term “low” has traditionally been reserved for products with clear health benefits, such as low-sugar or low-salt foods. Applying the label to wine contradicts this standard.
“There is no level of alcohol consumption that is safe for our health. The more you drink, the greater the damage,” the department noted.
Officials added that the measure could create a false sense of security, especially among young people and other groups susceptible to marketing.
They argued that “reduced alcohol content” would be a more consistent and transparent label, in line with terminology used across the European food sector since 2006.
The matter is currently under review by the European Parliament, which will examine the concerns raised by Belgium before any final decision is made.
Meanwhile, Belgium’s wine industry continues to expand rapidly. Vineyard areas have increased tenfold over the past 15 years, now covering nearly 1,000 hectares. In 2023, production reached a record 3.5 million litres.
Despite this growth, the sector is largely composed of small-scale operations, with around 300 growers managing vineyards averaging just three hectares each. Annual sales stand at about four million bottles, with an average retail price of €15.
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