E-commerce platforms have been cautioned by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) against using terms like ‘health drink’ or ‘energy drink’ for dairy, cereal, or malt-based beverages. FSSAI emphasised that these terms lack legal definition under Indian food laws, posing a risk of misinformation to consumers.
In a bid to rectify this, FSSAI urged all e-commerce Food Business Operators (FBOs) to promptly remove or delink such beverages from the category of ‘Health Drinks / Energy Drinks’. The food regulator clarified that while ‘Health Drink’ isn’t standardised in the FSS Act 2006 or associated regulations, ‘Energy Drinks’ are exclusively meant for carbonated and non-carbonated water-based flavoured drinks.
This move by FSSAI aligns with efforts to ensure clarity and transparency in product labelling, empowering consumers to make informed choices. It aims to combat misleading information and prevent potential health risks associated with excessive consumption, especially among youngsters.
Reports suggest a surge in the sales of energy drinks, with major companies like PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, and others offering them at competitive prices. However, concerns loom over their increased consumption and the potential health impacts highlighted by various studies.
As FSSAI reinforces regulatory measures, the focus remains on safeguarding consumer interests and promoting responsible consumption in the evolving landscape of food and beverage products.
