FSSAI Bans ORS Term for Non-Medicinal Drinks

ORS: Rethinking Product Labelling in India

Introduction

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has prohibited the use of the term “Oral Rehydration Solution” (ORS) for non-medicinal drinks. This step aims to prevent misleading health claims and protect consumers, particularly children, from deceptive marketing practices by commercial beverage companies.

1. What does the new FSSAI advisory state?

The advisory bans the use of “ORS” on labels, trademarks, or advertisements unless the product meets World Health Organization (WHO) standards and is sold through pharmacies. Only medically approved ORS with correct glucose and electrolyte balance can carry this label.

Example:

• Permitted: WHO-approved ORS sold in pharmacies (e.g., Electral).
• Not Permitted: Sweetened energy or hydration drinks claiming ORS benefits.

2. Why was this ban necessary?

Many commercial drinks falsely advertised themselves as “ORS substitutes,” despite excessive sugar and caffeine. Some contained up to 10 times the WHO-recommended sugar level, posing risks for children and diabetics.

Example: Certain celebrity-endorsed sports drinks contained caffeine and excessive sugar, potentially causing dehydration instead of relief.

3. What is real ORS and how is it different?

True ORS is a scientifically balanced mixture of water, glucose, sodium, and potassium, designed to restore fluids during dehydration caused by diarrhoea, fever, or heat.

Example: A WHO-ORS packet safely replenishes electrolytes, whereas commercial drinks may only refresh temporarily and can worsen dehydration.

4. What are the broader implications for labelling?

The ORS label ban underscores the need for transparency across all food and cosmetic products:

• Food industry: Products like fruit juices, smoothies, and cereals often claim “healthy” despite high sugar content.
• Cosmetic industry: Terms such as “natural,” “herbal,” or “cosmeceutical” imply medical benefits without scientific proof.

5. What can regulators do next?

FSSAI and agencies like CDSCO should:

• Tighten labelling regulations for food and cosmetics.
• Prohibit misleading medical or therapeutic claims.
• Educate consumers through awareness campaigns.
• Impose penalties for deceptive branding.

6. What is the role of the judiciary and industry?

Some manufacturers challenged the enforcement, and the Delhi High Court permitted the sale of existing stocks worth ₹180 crore. In the long term, stricter enforcement and consumer education will ensure informed choices and protect public health.

Synopsis (75 words)

The FSSAI’s ban on the misuse of “ORS” labels represents a major step toward honest marketing and consumer protection. It clearly distinguishes genuine medical formulations from deceptive commercial products. The move highlights the need for stricter labelling norms across food and cosmetic sectors, where terms like “natural” or “healthy” are often misused. Transparent product claims will strengthen public trust and protect consumers from misleading advertisements.