Yes, absinthe is legal in Hungary, but its production, sale, and marketing are tightly controlled under national and EU regulations. The Hungarian National Food Chain Safety Office (NÉBIH) enforces compliance with EU spirits legislation, while the 2023 amendment to the Hungarian Food Act (2023. évi LXXXVIII. törvény) introduced stricter labeling and thujone limits. Distillers must adhere to EU spirits regulations (2019/787) and obtain NÉBIH approval for thujone content (≤10 mg/kg) and production methods.
Key Regulations for Absinthe in Hungary
- Thujone Limits: Absinthe must contain ≤10 mg/kg thujone, aligning with EU Regulation (EC) No 1334/2008. NÉBIH conducts lab tests to verify compliance.
- Production Authorization: Distilleries require NÉBIH-issued permits, with inspections verifying adherence to EU spirits production standards (e.g., distillation processes, botanical sourcing).
- Labeling Requirements: Mandatory EU-compliant labels must include alcohol content (45–74% ABV), thujone content, and a health warning per EU Regulation (EU) 2019/787. Misleading claims about “hallucinogenic” effects are prohibited.
Recent shifts in 2026 compliance frameworks (e.g., NÉBIH’s updated Spirits Control Directive) emphasize traceability for absinthe ingredients and digital record-keeping for producers. Imports must also comply with EU customs codes (e.g., CN 2208.20.10 for absinthe). Violations risk fines up to 10 million HUF or criminal liability under the Hungarian Penal Code (Btk. 300/A §).