The Iowa Senate is taking steps to ban the sale of powdered or crystalline alcohol products in the state.
Powdered or crystalline alcohol is made by freeze-drying and pulverizing liquid alcohol. It is then packaged in a sealed pouch, making it more portable and easier to transport than traditional bottled alcohol. The makers of powdered alcohol claim the product is intended for those with active lifestyles, such as hikers or backpackers.
Opponents say the product is dangerous and poses an unnecessary public health risk when mixed improperly, added to food or other alcoholic drinks, and snorted. In addition, the portability of powdered or crystalline alcohol makes it more accessible to underage kids and children who may think it is candy.
Senate File 123 adds these types of products in the definition of liquor that is regulated by the Alcoholic Beverages Division of the Iowa Department of Commerce. The legislation also prohibits those who hold a liquor license from selling or possessing alcohol in powder or crystal form in Iowa, if the federal Tobacco, Tax & Trade Bureau approves the product in the future.
Last April, the federal Tobacco, Tax & Trade Bureau did authorize a powdered form of alcoholic liquor for sale in the United States but quickly rescinded the ruling, stating that the decision was made in error. Iowa is one of 17 states taking legislative action to prohibit the products. Four states already have a ban in place.