California Proposition 65 Warning
California’s Proposition 65 requires businesses to give a clear warning before exposing people to chemicals the state has listed as causing cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Alcoholic beverages are covered because alcohol itself is on that list.
What the warning says
Bottles shipped to California may carry a label reading: WARNING: Drinking distilled spirits, beer, coolers, wine and other alcoholic beverages may increase cancer risk, and, during pregnancy, can cause birth defects. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/alcohol. The exact wording and placement are set by the state and can vary by producer and container size.
Why this store shows a warning
We would rather over-explain than under-warn. The store displays this notice so that California customers see it before purchase, in addition to whatever appears on the bottle, the carton or the shelf tag.
What it does not mean
A Proposition 65 warning is not a statement that a product is unsafe at any level, and it is not a recall notice. The listing threshold is set far below the levels at which harm has been observed, which is why the warning appears on a very wide range of products.
Reducing exposure
- Drink less, or not at all; there is no established safe level of alcohol in pregnancy.
- Measure spirits instead of free pouring so that servings stay consistent.
- Keep bottles closed and out of reach of children.
- Follow any additional warning printed on the individual bottle.
More information
The California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment publishes the current warning language and the list of chemicals at oehha.ca.gov/proposition-65.
Contact
Questions about this warning: email [email protected] or call .Registered business details and alcohol licence information are available on request from customer support.