The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has instructed all state and union territory food safety departments to remove the term “ORS” (Oral Rehydration Salts) from the labels and brand names of non-pharmaceutical products. The move comes after several beverage and energy drink brands were found using the term “ORS” misleadingly to market their products as medical rehydration solutions.
What Prompted the Action
According to the FSSAI, “ORS” is a scientifically formulated composition regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, and not a food item. Its misuse in commercial beverages or electrolyte drinks violates labeling norms and may mislead consumers into believing that such products offer therapeutic benefits.
The authority highlighted that some manufacturers have been branding flavored or sweetened drinks with “ORS” in their names, potentially confusing them with WHO-approved oral rehydration formulations meant for medical use.
Enforcement and Compliance
The FSSAI has directed food safety commissioners in all states to immediately inspect markets and manufacturing units to ensure compliance. Products that continue to display “ORS” on labels or packaging after the notice period may face regulatory action, including license suspension or recall orders.
Manufacturers have been urged to relabel and rebrand their products in accordance with the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020. The regulator emphasized that misleading nomenclature undermines public health and consumer trust.
Industry Reaction
Industry experts say the order is a wake-up call for beverage brands that blur the line between nutrition and medicine. Some companies are expected to seek clarity from the FSSAI on acceptable alternatives for describing electrolyte content without using medical terminology.
India Advocacy Insight
The directive reinforces the FSSAI’s commitment to curbing deceptive marketing practices in the health and beverage sector. As India’s functional drink market expands rapidly, ensuring clear distinction between therapeutic and nutritional products is crucial for public health safety. The move also signals a broader regulatory tightening on product labeling and health claims across FMCG and nutraceutical sectors.
