FSSAI Orders Food Companies to Remove ‘ORS’ from Product Names and Labels

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed all State and Union Territory Food Safety Commissioners and Central Licensing Authorities to ensure that no food business operator (FBO) uses the term “ORS” in any form on their products.

This move aims to prevent consumer confusion and misleading branding practices, especially in the case of fruit-based, non-carbonated, and ready-to-drink beverages marketed as oral rehydration solutions.

Directive Covers All Forms of the Term ‘ORS’

According to the latest directive, the ban applies whether the term “ORS” appears alone, with a prefix or suffix, or even as part of a trademarked name. The regulator emphasized that such usage violates the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and related labelling and advertising regulations.

The FSSAI’s order clearly states that the use of “ORS” — even when paired with qualifiers such as “fruit-ORS” or “energy-ORS” — could mislead consumers into believing the product offers the same rehydration benefits as WHO-recommended Oral Rehydration Solutions.

Previous Relaxations Now Withdrawn

Earlier, the FSSAI had permitted companies to use “ORS” as part of a trademarked name, provided the label carried a disclaimer stating, “The product is NOT an ORS formula as recommended by WHO.”

However, after further review, the authority has now revoked this exception, clarifying that the use of “ORS” in any context is prohibited for food and beverage products. This decision aims to maintain consumer trust and accurate product information in the marketplace.

Misleading Labelling Considered a Violation

The FSSAI stated that such naming practices “mislead consumers by using false, deceptive, ambiguous, and erroneous declarations.” Products found violating the order will be deemed misbranded and misleading, making them punishable under Sections 52 and 53 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Authorities across India have been instructed to enforce the order immediately and take strict action against non-compliant food businesses.

Ensuring Truthful Labelling and Consumer Safety

Through this directive, the FSSAI reinforces its commitment to ensuring truthful labelling, fair marketing, and consumer safety in India’s fast-growing food and beverage sector. The regulator continues to tighten norms against misleading health claims and deceptive advertising in packaged food products.

FAQs on FSSAI’s Ban on the Use of ‘ORS’ in Food Products

1. What has the FSSAI banned regarding the term ‘ORS’?
FSSAI has banned the use of the term “ORS” in any form — standalone, with prefixes or suffixes, or as part of a trademark — on food and beverage labels.

2. Why has FSSAI banned the use of ‘ORS’ in food products?
The ban aims to prevent misleading consumers, as such products could falsely appear to have the same therapeutic value as WHO-recommended Oral Rehydration Solutions.

3. Does the ban apply to all food and beverage categories?
Yes, it applies to all food products, including fruit-based drinks, non-carbonated beverages, and ready-to-drink products.

4. What are the penalties for violating this directive?
Violations will be treated as misbranding and misleading advertising, punishable under Sections 52 and 53 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

5. What was the previous rule regarding ‘ORS’ usage?
Earlier, companies could use “ORS” in trademarks with a disclaimer. The new directive completely prohibits its usage to avoid confusion and maintain transparency.