FSSAI Bans 'ORS' Label on Non‑WHO Formulas

Overview

• The October 14 order bars use of the term on any food or beverage label, including within brand names or trademarks, with immediate effect.
• FSSAI rescinded its July 2022 and February 2024 permissions that had allowed trademarked use of the term with a disclaimer.
• Noncompliant products will be deemed misbranded under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, with penalties and enforcement assigned to state and central authorities and platforms.
• A clarification issued on October 15 stated that fruit-based, non-carbonated and ready-to-drink beverages cannot use the term in any form because it misleads consumers.
• The move follows an eight-year campaign and a 2022 PIL by paediatrician Dr. Sivaranjani Santosh and reports of high-sugar, electrolyte-poor drinks; WHO-compliant makers such as Cipla Health’s Prolyte welcomed the decision.