Hyderabad doctor’s fight exposes misleading ‘ORS’ claims; FSSAI orders label change
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) directed all food business operators to stop using the term ‘ORS’ in product labels and advertisements. The regulator said such practices mislead consumers and violate the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The order, issued on October 14, clarified that using ‘ORS’ in any food product name, whether as a standalone term, with a prefix or suffix, or as part of a trademark, violates the law. The directive withdraws previous permissions from July 2022 and February 2024 that allowed the use of the term if accompanied by a disclaimer stating the product was “not an ORS formula as recommended by WHO.”
FSSAI concluded that these labels misled consumers through “false, deceptive, ambiguous and erroneous names/label declarations.” It warned that the use of the term would now be considered misbranded and punishable under the Act. The order also reiterated an earlier April 2022 directive on misleading advertisements of ORS substitutes.
The Doctor Behind the Change
The move comes after Hyderabad-based paediatrician Dr Sivaranjani Santosh campaigned for eight years against companies that used ORS in marketing sugar-rich drinks. She highlighted the risks of such drinks worsening diarrhoea and misleading the public.
Speaking to ANI, Dr Santosh called the FSSAI’s directive a “huge relief.” She said, “Now no child or adult will die because of worsening diarrhoea from these drinks. ORS is a wonder drug of the 20th century. It saves lives and rehydrates us. Companies labelled sugary drinks as ORS, cheating the public for 14 years.”
Dr Santosh also criticized the companies for relying on disclaimers, saying most people do not read them. “Thirteen out of 100 children under five die from diarrhoea in India. Selling drinks that worsen diarrhoea is cruel,” she said.
She revealed the personal struggle behind her campaign. Despite pressure from her family and professional peers, she filed public interest litigation against companies and government authorities. “I faced tension and pressure, but I knew I was meant to do this,” Santosh said.
The Impact
Santosh’s efforts raised awareness about misleading labels and unsafe ORS substitutes. As a result, FSSAI now prohibits the use of ‘ORS’ in any food product, whether alone, with additions, or as a trademark. The order instructs all states, Union territories, and central licensing authorities to ensure compliance by all food business operators.
The regulator’s directive signals a stricter approach toward consumer protection. Companies that continue using the term risk legal action under the FSSAI Act. Experts said the move sets a precedent for ensuring ethical marketing and protecting public health.
Dr Santosh’s campaign shows how persistent advocacy can drive regulatory action. Her fight against misleading ORS labels may prevent deaths, reduce public confusion, and enforce stricter industry standards. FSSAI’s order demonstrates that vigilance and citizen action can bring significant change in consumer safety.
