ORS TRADEMARK CONTROVERSY & FSSAI REGULATION

NEWS – The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) recently banned the use of the term ‘ORS’ in beverage brand names, highlighting concerns over misleading consumers and potential health risks to children. The move follows an 8-year advocacy by Dr Sivaranjini Santhosh, a Hyderabad-based paediatrician.

HIGHLIGHTS

What is ORS?

• Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS): A medical solution comprising glucose, sodium chloride, and potassium chloride.
• Used to rehydrate children suffering from diarrhoea, preventing deaths in under-five children.
• Excess sugar in beverages falsely marketed as ORS can worsen dehydration instead of treating it.

Food Regulation in India

• Legal framework: Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
• Regulatory body: FSSAI (under Ministry of Health & Family Welfare)
• Functions: Sets standards, monitors food safety, regulates additives and contaminants, enforces hygiene and quality compliance.
• State-level: State Food Safety Authorities monitor and enforce standards locally.

Key Developments

• 2017: FSSAI notified initial ORS guidelines.
• April 2022: FSSAI restricted the use of ‘ORS’ in beverage names but allowed disclaimers.
• October 2025: Complete ban on the use of ORS in trademarked beverages.
• Objective: Prevent consumer confusion and protect children’s health.