Subject:   Classification of sugar Syrup produced at the intermediate stage in the manufacture of
                    aerated water and ayurvedic medicine- Regarding-

        I am directed to draw your attention to Board's Circular No. 75/75/94-CX. dt. 7.11.1994 issued from F.No. 14/3/90-CX.I on the above subject.

2.    The Board has been informed that in cases in which citric acid i.e. preservative is not added in the preparation of sugar solution, the parties are contending that the solution does not have any shelf life and not marketable.

3.    The matter has been examined in consultation with Chief Chemist. A copy of the opinion of Chief Chemist dated 15.5.96 is enclosed for information and necessary action. Board agrees with the view of the Chief Chemist.

To

The Deputy Secretary (C.EX.I),
Government of India
Ministry of Finance (Deptt. of Revenue),
New Deli.

        Please refer to your letter F.No. 14/5/95-CX.I dt. 13.12.1995 on the above subject with reference to this office u/o note C.No.21-Ex.o./ 77 dated 10.3.1989.

        The issue has been dealt with in detail in the above referred u/o note. However, with regard to your query as to whether sugar syrup will have shell life without adding citric acid in it, my comments are as following:-

        According to technical literature syrups are concentrated solution of sugars such as sucrose in water or other aqueous liquids. When purified water is used in making a solution manufacturing syrups the sucrose must be selected carefully and a purified water - free foreign substance and clean vessels and containers must be used. Dilute solutions of sucrose are prone to growth of molds yeast and other microorganisms. In concentration of 65% by weight or more the solution will retard the growth of microorganisms. Thus it may have shelf life without addition of any preservative.

        However, according to IS: 4935-1968 synthetic syrups may be prepared with or without addition of citric acid to sugar synthetic syrup shall be not less then 65% by weight. The only additives that shall be used in synthetic syrups are citric acid and permitted colours.