Cost of Cider
across the UK

# Cider Trade Body Accreditation

In the UK, cider producers are primarily regulated by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) under excise duty rules, and many choose to join industry bodies such as the Cider Makers Association (CMA) or pursue membership with the National Association of Cidermakers. The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) sets standards for cider-adjacent spirits, though cider itself falls under broader food and drink regulations overseen by the Food Standards Agency (FSA). Beyond these, accreditation may include quality schemes such as Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status for regional ciders like Herefordshire or Cornish cider, which signals authenticity and traditional production methods. These bodies exist to ensure product safety, fair trading practices, environmental responsibility, and adherence to labelling requirements. Understanding which accreditations a producer holds tells you whether they meet minimum legal standards and industry best practices, from hygiene protocols to ingredient transparency.

To verify a cider producer's accreditation, check their website for membership logos or certificates, or contact the relevant trade body directly to confirm their status on a register—the CMA and FSA websites both publish lists of affiliated members. Ask producers directly about their certifications and request evidence if making a significant purchase; reputable companies are transparent about their credentials. This verification matters because it protects you from purchasing substandard or mislabelled products, ensures the cider has been produced under regulated conditions, and gives you recourse through the trade body if something goes wrong. Accreditation also demonstrates the producer's commitment to legal compliance and ethical practices, reducing the risk of hidden additives or misleading marketing claims.

Accredited cider producers typically charge a premium of 5 to 15 percent above non-accredited alternatives, reflecting the costs of compliance, regular