The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken decisive action against beverage companies selling drinks labelled as “ORS” (Oral Rehydration Solution) that do not meet the formulation standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO). These misleading labels and high sugar formulations have raised serious public health concerns, especially regarding child safety.
What Triggered the Action
Investigations found that many products marketed as “ORS” or with similar names were actually flavoured electrolyte drinks containing excess sugar and inadequate levels of essential salts. These formulations are not suitable for medical use, and can even worsen dehydration in children suffering from diarrhoea.
In response, FSSAI issued a nationwide directive that only WHO compliant formulations can be marketed using the name “ORS”. Other drinks must immediately remove the term “ORS” from their names, labels, and promotional materials.
What the WHO Formula Requires
According to the WHO, a proper Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) per liter of water should include approximately:
- 2.6 g sodium chloride
- 1.5 g potassium chloride
- 2.9 g sodium citrate
- 13.5 g glucose (dextrose)
Any deviation from these ratios reduces the solution’s ability to rehydrate effectively and safely.
Consumer & Industry Impact
Public health experts have welcomed the move, saying it protects consumers especially parents who often confuse medical ORS sachets with commercial energy or fruit drinks. Many paediatricians have termed the misuse of the ORS label a “national health concern.”
Beverage companies are now required to relabel and rebrand non compliant drinks. State authorities have been instructed to enforce this strictly. However, some manufacturers have approached the courts seeking permission to sell existing stocks until the matter is legally settled.
Why This Matters
- True ORS saves lives, especially among children under five suffering from dehydration and diarrhoea.
- Misleading “ORS” labels can cause confusion, delay treatment and endanger health.
- The crackdown is a reminder of the importance of accurate medical labelling and consumer vigilance in India’s growing health beverage market.
Awareness Message
How to Identify Genuine ORS:
- Always check for WHO or FSSAI approved medical labelling.
- True ORS usually comes in powder sachets not bottles or flavoured drinks.
- The packet must clearly mention composition and dosage instructions.
- Avoid products with added flavours, fruit juices, or claims like “energizing” or “refreshing.”
Conclusion
FSSAI’s move marks an important step toward ensuring public trust and health safety in India’s food and beverage industry. True ORS remains a simple, life saving formula when used correctly. Consumers are advised to remain alert and purchase only medically approved rehydration products.
