NJ Could Soon Allow Alcohol-Infused Frozen Treats

A legislative proposal in New Jersey could soon permit the creation and sale of alcoholic frozen desserts. The bill, known as S4130/A5013, would allow for the infusion of beer, wine, cider, mead, and other alcoholic beverages into a variety of frozen treats.

These novel desserts, which could include frozen custard, sherbet, and even bisque tortoni, must adhere to a strict alcohol content limit of no more than 5% by volume. Businesses already possessing licenses to sell frozen desserts would be authorized to manufacture and distribute these new products.

To ensure public safety, all alcoholic frozen desserts would need to be sold in sealed packaging. These products will also be required to display warning labels similar to those found on alcoholic beverages, addressing concerns such as underage drinking, pregnancy risks, and impaired driving. Sales to individuals under the age of 21 would constitute a disorderly persons offense under the proposed legislation. The bill is currently progressing through legislative committees and requires approval from both chambers and the governor to become law.