FSSAI Orders Removal of Beverages Misusing ‘ORS’ Label from Retail and E-Com Platforms

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed an immediate crackdown on food and beverage products unlawfully using the term ‘ORS’ on labels and packaging. This directive follows instances of non-compliant items continuing to surface in stores and online platforms despite prior warnings. 

FSSAI Enforces Crackdown on Misuse of ‘ORS’ in Beverage Labels 

On November 20, 2025, FSSAI ordered the removal of fruit-based beverages, energy drinks, electrolyte drinks, and ready-to-serve beverages misusing the term ‘ORS’. According to the authority, these products do not meet the standards of Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) as prescribed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and hence deceive consumers. Officers have been instructed to carry out inspections to ensure enforcement across retail and e-commerce sectors. 

As per the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, using the term ‘ORS’ on food products violates labelling regulations. The directive reiterated that ‘ORS’ may only be used for WHO-approved formulations intended for medical use, not general-purpose beverages. 

Previous Clarifications and Continued Violations 

Despite FSSAI’s orders dated October 14 and subsequent clarification issued on October 15, several beverage companies continued to brand non-compliant products using the ‘ORS’ label. The new crackdown mandates immediate removal of such products from both shelves and websites. 

Enforcement officers have been tasked with documenting their inspections, violations found, actions taken, and the removal status of these beverages. Any company violating the directive will face regulatory action under prevailing food safety laws. However, the order specifically excludes WHO-recommended pharmaceutical ORS solutions from any restrictions. 

Read More: ITC Share Price Steady as Sunrise Swasthya Pradesh Programme Expands Food Safety Outreach! 

Delhi High Court Upholds FSSAI’s Directive 

On October 31, 2025, the Delhi High Court declined to intervene against FSSAI’s order. The Court stressed the protection of public health over commercial interests, noting that misuse of medical terminology like ‘ORS’ by food companies presents a significant risk. A detailed judgment is expected to follow. 

Conclusion 

FSSAI’s recent directive reinforces its stance on consumer protection by eliminating misleading beverage labelling. The initiative ensures that only authentic WHO-compliant ORS formulations remain accessible while removing improperly branded drinks from circulation. 

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