Butter-Free Butterbeer?…Korea Food & Drug Administration Files Complaint Against Manufacturer for Labeling Violation

The government announced that 'Butter Macju' does not contain butter and filed criminal charges against the manufacturer and seller with the police for violating labeling and advertising laws, while also warning the manufacturer of a suspension of production. The manufacturer opposed the decision, stating that the government made an excessive interpretation and vowed to actively provide explanations.

The photo is not related to the article content. [Photo by Pixabay]

According to the alcohol industry on the 8th, the Seoul Regional Food and Drug Safety Office gave prior notice of a one-month suspension of production to Buruguru, the manufacturer of Blancerie Beurre (Butter Macju). In addition, Buruguru, the seller Virtue Company, and GS Retail were reported to the police.

This product has been sold since April last year at about 300 stores including popup stores in famous domestic department stores and specialty liquor shops. It gained popularity on social media as Butter Macju due to its buttery aroma from the beer and even experienced a shortage at one point.

The authorities took this action because Blancerie Beurre used the product name 'Beurre' without containing butter, which was deemed a violation of the Food Labeling and Advertising Act. 'Beurre' means butter in French.

The manufacturer stated that they will actively explain to the government. The company explained that they only used 'Beurre' (butter) in the trademark, did not list it in the ingredient name, and did not advertise it as butter. It is reported that the company intends to continue providing explanations even if the actual sanction is imposed. A GS Retail official, the seller of the product, also explained, "Attaching a nickname that reflects the concept and characteristics of a product is a common practice in the distribution industry to communicate with customers."