Food Manifest 
Key Update
FSSAI has directed State and Union Territory Food Safety Authorities to immediately remove all fruit-based beverages, ready-to-serve drinks, energy drinks, electrolyte drinks, and similar products that use the term “ORS” in their brand or product names.
In its 19 November order, FSSAI noted that several manufacturers still market products labelled as “ORS,” despite earlier directives issued on 14 and 15 October prohibiting the use of the term. The authority clarified that “ORS” refers exclusively to WHO-recommended Oral Rehydration Salts, which are drug formulations regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Using the term for food products violates the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and misleads consumers.
FSSAI issued the October directive after Hyderabad paediatrician Dr Sivaranjani Santosh spent eight years campaigning against companies that sell sugary beverages disguised as ORS. The authority observed that such misleading products remain widely available in grocery stores, modern retail outlets, and major e-commerce platforms, increasing the risk of consumers confusing them with genuine ORS used to treat dehydration.
Nationwide Inspections Ordered
FSSAI has directed Designated Officers and Field Officers to immediately inspect retail stores and online platforms. Officials must identify all non-compliant products using the term “ORS,” remove them without delay, and initiate regulatory action against the responsible food business operators. The authority has also asked officers to submit detailed Action Taken Reports documenting inspections, violations, corrective steps, and product withdrawals.
Clarification on Genuine ORS Products
The order also highlighted instances where Food Safety Officers acted against legitimate WHO-recommended ORS formulations. FSSAI clarified that its directions apply only to misleading food and beverage products, not genuine, which falls under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. The authority reiterated that WHO-recommended Oral Rehydration Salts is a drug product and should not face food-related enforcement actions such as sampling or seizure.
Source: The Hindu
