Why LaCroix Was Temporarily Illegal In Massachusetts

Sparkling water can help you stay hydrated, says Sodastream. If you're craving a carbonated beverage, but trying to cut down on sugar, the bubbly beverage may be able to help quench your craving. Since there's generally no added sugar in sparkling water, it can be a healthier alternative to soda. With a variety of different brands and flavors available at most grocery stores, consumers can choose their favorite plain seltzer or fruit-infused flavor to enjoy.

Back in 1981, LaCroix sparkling water was created by the G. Heileman Brewing Company in Wisconsin, reports Bon Appétit. In 2002, the brand was purchased by the National Beverage Corporation in Florida. Today, the brand produces and distributes over 30 different flavors, including coffee and cola-essence flavors, according to its website. Though the drink can be found in most grocery stores across the country, for a while, it was actually illegal to sell in Massachusetts — but that doesn't mean it disappeared from the shelves.

All companies that sell bottled water and other canned carbonated beverages in Massachusetts must have a permit to do so, and submit water quality tests to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, according to Eater. In 2019, it was discovered by Consumer Reports that the National Beverage Corporation never obtained the necessary permit, and hadn't submitted the quality tests, reports the Boston Globe — meaning that all prior sales of LaCroix beverages had been illegal.

Once the Department of Health was notified, it sent a notice to the National Beverage Corporation, giving the company 10 days to apply for the permit and submit the necessary tests, otherwise, it would be facing legal consequences. The National Beverage Corporation reportedly released a statement that it had applied for the permit and paid all fees, hoping to resolve the issue. The permit was granted on June 26, 2019, and LaCroix has been legally sold in the state ever since.