Kerala Beverages Corporation mandates QR codes on liquor bottles for more security

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala State Beverages Corporation plans to mandate QR codes for liquor bottles starting February. This decision aims to enhance safety and traceability in the liquor supply chain. However, no agreement has been reached regarding the imposition of an additional liability of Rs 1 crore on liquor companies associated with this.

The Beverages Corporation is prepared to cover the costs for the QR code stickers, but the financial investment required for the necessary machinery is a concern for the liquor companies. 

Challenges in implementation

If the Corporation maintains its strict regulations, there may be interruptions in the supply of liquor. To address these issues, meetings with liquor companies have been scheduled to find a solution.

Each liquor bottle will feature a unique QR code, which must be applied at the distilleries before distribution. Approximately 100 distributors supplying liquor to the Corporation will need to implement this new system.

Currently, only Travancore Sugars and Chemicals, a public sector unit, has successfully set up a QR code system. This installation costs Rs 1 crore at their factory in Thiruvalla. QR-coded liquor is being supplied to Tiruvalla and Nedumangad warehouses on a trial basis. 

Presently, liquor bottles come with a security label that includes a hologram from the Beverages Corporation. The addition of QR codes is expected to provide greater security, reduce delays, and streamline the labelling process, making the entire system more efficient.