Yes, Absinthe is legal in the Netherlands, provided it complies with EU spirits regulations and Dutch food safety laws. The Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) enforces these rules, aligning with the EU’s 2008 spirits regulation (EC No 1334/2008), which permits absinthe with thujone levels up to 10 mg/kg. Recent 2026 draft amendments to the Warenwetbesluit Bereiding en Verhandeling van Levensmiddelen (Commodities Decree on Food Preparation and Trade) may tighten labeling requirements for high-proof spirits, including absinthe.
Key Regulations for Absinthe in Netherlands
- Thujone Limits: Absinthe must contain ≤10 mg/kg thujone, as mandated by EU Regulation 1334/2008. Products exceeding this threshold are prohibited under Dutch law.
- Alcohol Content: Must adhere to EU spirit definitions, typically 45–74% ABV. NVWA inspects distilleries for compliance during production and import.
- Labeling Requirements: Mandatory EU-compliant labeling includes ingredient lists, ABV, and origin. From 2026, additional warnings for high-proof spirits may apply under Dutch health policies.