Yes, absinthe is legal in Italy under strict EU-aligned regulations. The Italian Ministry of Health permits sales of absinthe with thujone content below 10 mg/kg, aligning with Regulation (EU) 2019/787. Recent 2026 compliance shifts by the Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco (AIFA) emphasize labeling transparency for high-proof spirits.
Key Regulations for Absinthe in Italy
- Thujone Limit: Maximum 10 mg/kg, enforced by AIFA and the Guardia di Finanza during inspections.
- Alcohol Content: Products exceeding 25% ABV require health warnings per EU spirits regulation.
- Labeling: Mandatory display of botanical ingredients and origin, validated by the Ministero delle Politiche Agricole.
Non-compliance risks fines up to €50,000 or seizure under Decreto Legislativo 231/2007. Imported absinthe must also comply with Italian excise duties, monitored by the Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli.