Delhi High Court Upholds FSSAI Ban on 'ORS' Labeling for Non-Compliant Beverages
The Delhi High Court upheld the FSSAI's ban on using the term 'ORS' in the branding of non-compliant beverages, citing serious public health concerns. The court rejected a plea by Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, stating that only products meeting WHO standards can use the 'ORS' label. Existing stocks may be re-labeled, but no new sales are permitted.
The Delhi High Court has upheld the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India's (FSSAI) ban on the use of the term 'ORS' (Oral Rehydration Solution) in the branding of fruit-based, non-carbonated, or ready-to-drink beverages that do not meet the standard medical formulation. The court emphasized the public health risks associated with misleading labeling, noting that improper ORS products could cause adverse health outcomes, especially for those needing genuine ORS for medical reasons. The decision came in response to a petition by Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd., which challenged the FSSAI's directive. The company had requested permission to sell its existing inventory, but the court declined, directing the company to approach the regulatory body for consideration. The FSSAI had previously clarified that using 'ORS' as part of a trademark, with or without prefixes or suffixes, was misleading and deceptive to consumers. The court's ruling reinforces the regulatory stance that only products meeting WHO-approved standards can use the 'ORS' label, ensuring consumer safety and accurate information.
