With the surprisingly fast rise in additive-free tequila that has shaken up the industry, another spirit may be primed for its own reevaluation of additives and transparency. The rum industry is rife with the use of additives — ingredients added after a rum has already developed its natural flavor through the distillation process. And producers, depending on the country of origin and amount used, aren’t required to disclose this fact. Among the most common additives are sweeteners, flavorings, and caramel color, for consistency. We’re not talking about flavored or spiced rums, which by their very nature have added ingredients post-distillation.
