FSSAI bans use of misleading ‘ORS’ labels on beverages
FSSAI Bans Use Of ‘ORS’ In Food Product Branding: In a significant move aimed at protecting consumer interests, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has banned the use of the term ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts) in the brand names of food and beverage products. The regulatory body has clearly directed that only products approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) may use the term ORS, ensuring that consumers are not misled by misleading branding practices.
Previously, under orders dated July 14, 2022, and February 2, 2024, companies were allowed to use the term ORS in brand names provided a disclaimer was included stating the product was not a WHO-recommended formula. This allowance has now been officially revoked. Companies have been ordered to remove the word ORS from all product names and labels with immediate effect.
According to a report by NDTV, using “ORS” in the name of non-WHO-approved products—including fruit-based beverages, non-carbonated drinks, and ready-to-drink formulations—will be treated as a legal violation under Sections 23 and 24 of the FSSAI Act, 2006. Additionally, the FSSAI warned that violators could face action under Sections 52 and 53 for misleading advertisements. The earlier directive from April 8, 2022, on taking action against misleading ORS-like products also remains in force.
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