Thu Nov 20 11:10:24 UTC 2025: News Article:
FSSAI Cracks Down on Misleading “ORS” Beverages
Hyderabad, India – November 20, 2025: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has ordered an immediate nationwide recall of fruit-based beverages, energy drinks, and similar products that deceptively use the term “ORS” (Oral Rehydration Salts) in their branding. This action follows earlier directives issued in October and is a culmination of an eight-year campaign led by Hyderabad-based pediatrician Dr. Sivaranjani Santosh.
The FSSAI emphasizes that “ORS” is exclusively associated with WHO-recommended Oral Rehydration Salts, which are classified as drug products. The agency has found that numerous manufacturers are using the term in their product names, potentially misleading consumers into believing these beverages are suitable for treating dehydration.
The regulatory body has instructed State and Union Territory Food Safety Authorities to conduct immediate inspections of retail stores and online marketplaces to identify and remove non-compliant products. Violators will face regulatory action. The FSSAI has also clarified that the directive only applies to misleading food and beverage products and does not restrict the sale of legitimate, WHO-recommended ORS, which is governed under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. The Food Safety Officers were earlier reported to be acting against genuine ORS products, which led to FSSAI clarifying the order.
First Piper 