Overview

• An October 14 directive limits use of “Oral Rehydration Salts” to formulations that match World Health Organization standards.
• FSSAI withdrew its July 14, 2022 and February 2, 2024 orders that had allowed trademarked use of “ORS” with a disclaimer.
• A follow‑up clarification on October 15 told state regulators, central licensing authorities and e‑commerce platforms to ensure immediate removal from names, labels and ads.
• Using “ORS” on food or beverage products now constitutes misbranding under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, attracting penalties under Sections 52 and 53.
• The action caps an eight‑year campaign and a 2022 PIL by paediatrician Dr. Sivaranjani Santosh after reports of high‑sugar, non‑compliant drinks being sold as ORS.