Yes, absinthe is legal in Puerto Rico, provided it complies with federal and local alcohol regulations. The U.S. territory follows TTB standards for distilled spirits, including absinthe’s thujone limits (≤10 ppm), and requires local licensing from the Puerto Rico Department of Treasury. No territorial ban exists, but sales are subject to excise taxes and labeling scrutiny.
Key Regulations for Absinthe in Puerto Rico
- Thujone Content: Must adhere to U.S. federal limits of ≤10 ppm thujone, verified by TTB-approved testing. Puerto Rico’s excise division cross-references labels to ensure compliance.
- Licensing Requirements: Distributors and retailers must secure a Licencia de Venta de Licores from the Puerto Rico Department of Treasury, with absinthe classified under “spirits” for tax purposes.
- Labeling Standards: Mandatory TTB-compliant labeling, including alcohol-by-volume (ABV) declaration, net contents, and a government warning statement. Misleading “natural” or “organic” claims trigger additional scrutiny under local consumer protection laws.