Previously, the 355ml size for spirits was limited to metal or aluminium containers. Credit: Nordroden via Shutterstock.

The US Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has authorised the use of glass containers for spirits across all approved sizes, including the 355ml size.

The Glass Packaging Institute (GPI), representing the glass packaging manufacturers in the US, has applauded TTB’s rule that comes into effect tomorrow (10 January).

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The regulatory change is seen as a significant advancement for consumer choice, industry innovation, and fair competition in the alcohol beverage market.

Previously, the 355ml size for spirits was limited to metal or aluminium containers in the country.

GPI and its member companies have long advocated for the removal of this restriction, which they felt unfairly limited glass manufacturers’ ability to compete and restricted packaging options for spirits brands.

Glass containers will now offer spirits producers a packaging size that aligns with consumer preferences and environmental objectives.

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The demand for spirits-based ready-to-drink cocktails has seen a significant increase, with sales growing by 226% from 2016 to 2021, according to the body’s press release.

TTB has also been commended by GPI for recognising the need for packaging flexibility across other sizes such as 187ml and 250ml.

This ensures that glass containers can meet the needs of spirits producers for all approved capacities.

GPI president Scott DeFife said: “This decision marks a pivotal moment for consumers, the glass packaging industry and the broader spirits market.

“The TTB’s decision to modernise older regulations that had previously limited packaging options for certain spirits-based products, acknowledges the importance of innovation, consumer choice, and environmental sustainability.

“It ensures a level playing field for all packaging materials. This ruling will allow domestic glass manufacturers to serve this growing market.”