Misuse of ORS Label: FSSAI Issues 75 Notices to FBOs for Non-WHO Compliant Drinks

The enforcement action follows the Government’s directive for the immediate removal of products using “Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS)” in their brand or product names if they do not conform to World Health Organization (WHO) standards for oral rehydration salts.

During a recent Rajya Sabha session, Sagarika Ghose raised concerns over the widespread sale of so-called ORS drinks that allegedly fail to meet WHO-prescribed formulations. She sought clarity on the Government’s awareness of such practices, adverse reaction reports over the last five years, the continued use of the term “ORS” in brand names prior to October 2025 despite non-compliance, and whether recall measures had been initiated.

Responding to the queries, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav stated that FSSAI, in exercise of its regulatory powers, has directed all FBOs to remove brand and product names containing the term “Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS)” with immediate effect from all distribution channels, including e-commerce platforms.

He further added that on October 14, 2025, FSSAI issued directions to enforcement authorities across States and UTs, including Commissioners of Food Safety and Central Licensing Authorities, to initiate regulatory action against FBOs using the term “ORS” on non-carbonated water-based beverages, fruit-based beverages, and ready-to-serve or ready-to-drink products, in violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and relevant regulations.

Explaining the legal framework, the Minister said that the FSS Act, 2006 prohibits unfair trade practices, including misleading advertisements and claims. He also highlighted the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018, which mandate that food-related claims and labelling must be accurate, non-deceptive, and aligned with prescribed safety standards.

“It is the responsibility of the food business to adhere to these requirements. Any contravention of these regulations may lead to appropriate action in accordance with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the regulations made thereunder,” the Ministry added.

Reiterating enforcement measures, the Minister informed the House that action has been initiated against defaulting FBOs nationwide, resulting in the issuance of 75 notices, including improvement notices, suspension orders, and show-cause notices.