Crowler Legalities – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Beer Regulation Glossary

Written by: colonelbeer-admin
Published On:

I. What is a Crowler?

A Crowler is a type of container used to package draft beer for off-premise consumption. It is essentially a large aluminum can that is filled and sealed on-site at a brewery or taproom. The term “Crowler” is a combination of the words “can” and “growler,” as it serves a similar purpose to a traditional glass growler but offers some distinct advantages.

II. Are Crowlers legal in all states?

The legality of Crowlers varies from state to state. Some states have specific laws that allow breweries to sell Crowlers directly to consumers, while others prohibit the sale of Crowlers altogether. It is important for breweries to familiarize themselves with the laws and regulations in their state regarding Crowler sales to ensure compliance.

III. What are the regulations for labeling Crowlers?

In states where Crowlers are legal, there are often regulations in place regarding how they must be labeled. This typically includes information such as the name of the brewery, the type of beer inside the Crowler, the alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage, and the date the Crowler was filled. Breweries must ensure that their Crowlers are properly labeled to provide consumers with accurate and transparent information.

IV. Can breweries sell Crowlers directly to consumers?

In states where Crowlers are legal, breweries are typically allowed to sell Crowlers directly to consumers for off-premise consumption. This can be a convenient option for customers who want to take home their favorite draft beer from a brewery. However, breweries must adhere to any specific regulations regarding Crowler sales, such as age restrictions or quantity limits.

V. Are there any restrictions on the size of Crowlers?

The size of Crowlers can vary depending on state regulations. Some states may have specific size restrictions in place, such as limiting Crowlers to 32 ounces or 64 ounces. Breweries must be aware of these restrictions and ensure that they are filling and selling Crowlers in compliance with the law.

VI. How do Crowler legalities differ from growler legalities?

While Crowlers and growlers serve a similar purpose, there are some key differences in their legalities. Growlers are typically reusable glass containers that customers bring to a brewery to be filled with draft beer. Crowlers, on the other hand, are single-use aluminum cans that are filled and sealed on-site. This distinction can impact regulations surrounding sales, labeling, and distribution. It is important for breweries to understand the specific legalities of both Crowlers and growlers in their state to ensure compliance with the law.