FSSAI Restricts ‘ORS’ in Brand Names; ORSL Maker JNTL Secures Court Stay
Varahimedia.com Online News, Hyderabad, October 18, 2025: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed food businesses, particularly those marketing fruit-based, non-
Varahimedia.com Online News, Hyderabad, October 18, 2025: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed food businesses, particularly those marketing fruit-based, non-carbonated, and ready-to-drink beverages, to immediately cease using the term ‘ORS’ (Oral Rehydration Solution) in their brand names, advertisements, and on product labels.
Why the Ban? Clarity and Consumer Safety
The FSSAI issued official communications on October 14 and 15, clarifying that incorporating “ORS” into any trademarked name even with added prefixes or suffixes violates the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006.
This regulatory move aims to eliminate consumer confusion between general hydration drinks and genuine ORS, which is classified as a drug product specifically for treating diarrhoeal dehydration. Electrolyte fruit-based beverages, while safe for general ‘non-diarrhoeal’ dehydration, are distinct from medical-grade ORS.
Misinformation Clarified: Products Not Banned
Despite the FSSAI’s clear mandate for label changes, misinformation has wrongly circulated among retailers and distributors, suggesting an immediate ‘ban’ on scientifically formulated products like ORSL and similar drinks. The FSSAI confirmed this is not the case.
Regulatory provisions, as reiterated in the FSSAI Order dated 15.10.2025 (reviving 08.04.2022 directions), stipulate that any necessary labeling changes will be managed via ‘Improvement Notices’ issued by Designated Officers, in line with the FSS Act, 2006.
Court Intervention: Stay for ORSL
Further complicating the matter, the Honorable Delhi High Court on October 17 granted a stay on the enforcement of the FSSAI’s orders against Kenvue, the marketer of the popular ORSL brand.
Consequently, retailers are currently permitted to continue distributing and selling these products until the regulatory and legal proceedings yield further notice.
Industry stakeholders have emphasized their dedication to complying with labeling norms while actively working to educate consumers through packaging and public health initiatives. The FSSAI’s decision underscores its commitment to ensuring consumer clarity and upholding the integrity of food and beverage labeling standards across India.
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