Key Update

Nearly three months after the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) banned the use of “ORS” for non-compliant beverages, fruit-based, these high-sugar ORS drinks continue to appear on shelves across Telangana and other states, both at medical stores and on quick-commerce platforms. These drinks, typically priced between Rs 30 and Rs 50, fail to meet WHO-recommended ORS formulations, creating potential health risks for children.

Regulatory Gaps and Expert Concerns

Dr Sivaranjani Santosh, whose PIL prompted the Delhi High Court to order the FSSAI ban, called the continued sale of ORS-labelled drinks a serious regulatory failure. She reported receiving complaints and photographs from multiple states showing ORS-labelled drinks and tablets sold as beverages. Such products give a false sense of safety, are not WHO-approved, and can harm children, especially when they consume high-sugar beverages instead of proper ORS solutions.

Patchy Enforcement on the Ground

Authorities enforce the ban inconsistently. Telangana Food Safety officials have issued notices and halted production but have not conducted inspections focused solely on ORS drinks due to legal sensitivities. Retailers remain uncertain and continue selling existing stock until distributors provide clear guidance. Dr Sivaranjani has urged coordinated action to ensure that food safety authorities strictly enforce the ban to protect children’s health.

Clear Regulations and Judicial Oversight

FSSAI prohibits companies from using the term “ORS” for products that do not meet the prescribed medical formulation. After noting continued violations, the regulator reiterated the ban in November, directing state authorities to remove non-compliant products and take action under the Food Safety and Standards Act. The Delhi High Court refused interim relief to a company attempting to sell electrolyte drinks branded as “ORSL,” citing serious public health risks.

Health Risks of Mislabelled Drinks

Medical experts warn that some drinks contain up to ten times the recommended sugar, which can worsen diarrhoea and electrolyte imbalance in children. Manufacturers add sugar and preservatives to extend shelf life, but high sugar content can intensify dehydration in patients, particularly children, by causing osmotic diarrhoea.

Source: The Times of India