State closes down zippers as an alcholic choice

State regulators have effectively banned an alcoholic gelatin product from Iowa stores. “Zippers” are made with 24-proof alcohol and state Alcoholic Beverages Division chief Lynn Walding fears kids would mistake them for Jell-o treats. Walding says all shipments were sent back to the maker in Toledo, Ohio, and no new shipments will be allowed in. Walding says the products seemed to be targeting kids with their colors and attractive packaging. He says names like Rum Rush, Tijuana Teas, Vodka Splash and Whisky Drops draw younger audiences to them. Walding says he brought samples of the product home and feared one of his children would get into them because they look like regular Jell-O.Iowa stores that have gelatin shots in stock can still legally sell them. They just won’t be replaced when supplies run out. One retailer said Zippers weren’t selling well anyway at ten-to-twelve dollars for an eight-pack.