Food regulator FSSAI has asked states and Union Territories to remove fruit-based beverages, ready-to-serve drinks, electrolyte drinks and energy drinks being sold under brand names containing the term “ORS” from retail shelves and e-commerce platforms. The authority has issued this direction through a letter dated November 19, noting that such products are being marketed deceptively under the ORS label.
The move has been initiated after the regulator has observed continued misuse of the ‘ORS’ term despite earlier instructions, as per media reports. FSSAI has issued the reminder that the use of ‘ORS’ (Oral Rehydration Solution) in product names, labels or advertising has been prohibited as it misleads consumers.
FSSAI has earlier directed all food business operators to stop using the term ‘ORS’ in labelling and advertisements, withdrawing prior circulars from July 2022 and February 2024. It has clarified in its October 14 order that using ‘ORS’, even with a prefix or suffix, in trademarked names or food product branding constitutes a violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
