Yes, absinthe is legal in Peru, but its production, import, and sale are tightly controlled under national alcohol regulations and health standards enforced by DIGESA. The beverage’s thujone content—historically restricted due to EU-style bans—is permitted up to 10 mg/kg under Peruvian law, aligning with Codex Alimentarius guidelines. Recent 2026 amendments to Decreto Supremo 014-2019-SA further mandate labeling disclosures for absinthe’s thujone levels and origin, reflecting heightened scrutiny on imported spirits.
Key Regulations for Absinthe in Peru
- Thujone Limits: Maximum 10 mg/kg of thujone in finished products, per Reglamento de Bebidas Alcohólicas (DS 014-2019-SA). Exceeding this triggers mandatory destruction or re-export under DIGESA oversight.
- Import Permits: Importers must secure approval from DIGESA and SUNAT, with consignments subject to pre-shipment inspections for thujone compliance and labeling accuracy.
- Labeling Mandates: Labels must display thujone content, alcohol by volume (ABV ≥45% for absinthe), and a health warning: “El consumo excesivo de alcohol daña la salud” (Excessive alcohol consumption harms health).