FSSAI Restricts ‘ORS’ Label to WHO-Formulated Drinks, Bans Misleading High-Sugar Products

FSSAI has issued an advisory restraining food and beverage manufacturers from employing the expression ‘ORS’ in any product name, label, or trademark, whether as a prefix, suffix, or otherwise.

The directive arises from persistent concerns regarding the deceptive use of the term on sugar-laden beverages, potentially misleading consumers as to the product’s therapeutic purpose.

The order stipulates that only formulations conforming to the World Health Organisation’s prescribed oral rehydration solution standards, comprising essential electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and glucose, may be designated as ‘ORS’.

Any product containing excessive sugar and failing to satisfy these specifications shall be prohibited from such representation under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.