FSSAI Issues Directive to Remove ORS on Food Labels and Brand Names

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a new directive asking all States and Union Territories' Commissioners of Food Safety, along with Central Licensing Authorities, to ensure that food business operators (FBOs) remove the term “ORS” from product labels and brand names. This decision covers all food products, including fruit-based, non-carbonated, and ready-to-drink beverages.

Scope of the Directive

The directive applies regardless of how the term “ORS” is used. Whether it appears as a standalone word, with a prefix or suffix, or forms part of a trademarked product name, its usage is now considered a violation. In an official statement, the authority noted, “The use of the term 'ORS' in the trademarked name or in the naming of any food product otherwise constitutes a violation of the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the regulations made thereunder.”

Previously, the use of “ORS” in product names was allowed under certain conditions. Products could carry the term as part of a trademark with a prefix or suffix, provided the label included a warning stating, “The product is NOT an ORS formula as recommended by WHO.” However, after further review, FSSAI has clarified that any use of the term on food products is misleading and must be removed.

Reasons for the Change

The authority highlighted that using “ORS” in product names can mislead consumers. The term may give the impression that the product is an oral rehydration solution recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO), which may not be true. FSSAI stated that such practices create “false, deceptive, ambiguous, and erroneous names or label declarations.”

Products that continue to use the term “ORS” are considered misbranded and misleading. Under Sections 52 and 53 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, such violations make the manufacturers and sellers liable for legal action, including penalties and product recalls.

Compliance Measures

All concerned authorities have been directed to ensure immediate compliance with the directive. Food business operators must remove the term “ORS” from labels and brand names without delay. Regulatory authorities are also instructed to monitor adherence and take necessary action against violators to maintain consumer safety and transparency in the food market.

Implications for Food Business Operators

Food Business Operators (FBOs) across India will need to review their product labelling and branding strategies in line with this directive. Companies using “ORS” in any form must modify their packaging and branding to avoid regulatory action. This move underscores the importance of accurate product labelling and protecting consumers from potentially misleading claims.

Read More:FSSAI Promises 1-Day Licences for Food and Millet Startups

Conclusion

FSSAI’s directive represents a focused effort to standardise labelling practices and ensure that consumers are not misled by product names. Food business operators are expected to comply promptly, and authorities will oversee enforcement. 

By removing the term “ORS” from all food product labels and brand names, the regulator aims to strengthen consumer confidence and uphold the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

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