Confidence in the safety of beverages and bottled water is important to consumers. It is the role of Food Protection's Beverage and Bottled Water Inspection and Licensing Program to make sure the practices and processes used in the production and bottling of beverages and bottled water will provide a safe product.

NH-based Manufacturers and Bottlers

All beverage and beverage concentrate manufacturers and water bottlers located in the state of New Hampshire are required to be licensed by the Department of Health and Human Services. The Beverage and Bottled Water Inspection and Licensing Program inspects these facilities to determine compliance with New Hampshire regulations and good manufacturing practices. The Beverage and Bottled Water Inspection and Licensing Program also reviews testing results of bottled water and beverages to determine compliance with New Hampshire and federal standards for quality and safety. See the list of food processing authorities available to conduct process reviews of bottled water and beverage products.

Out of State Manufacturers and Bottlers

Beverages, beverage concentrates and bottled water produced outside New Hampshire but sold within the state must be registered by the Department of Health and Human Services.

Definition of Beverage

The term "beverage" includes all still and carbonated drinks; fruit juices and all beverages compounded from them; all bottled waters whether for medicinal or table use; and all packaged liquids intended for drinking. It does not include alcoholic beverages.

Definition of Beverage Concentrate

The term "concentrate" includes all concentrated fruit juices, fruit-flavored and other syrups, and compounds and mixtures in concentrated form, put up in packages for retail sale and intended as a basis for the preparation of a beverage.