WHO-approved ORS: Companies will no longer be able to sell fake 'ORS' drinks. FSSAI has issued strict orders

Fake ORS: Many companies were being clever and labeling their energy drinks, flavored powders, or ready-to-drink bottles as ORS. This would be done by writing "ORS Drink" or "ORS Powder" in bold on the packaging.

FSSAI Order on ORS: If you've ever bought a drink labeled "ORS" when you're sick, this news is for you. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has made a significant decision. Under this order, no company will be able to sell its product under the name "ORS" unless it's actually ORS. This order came into effect on October 14th. 

 

Why did FSSAI take this step?

ORS, or Oral Rehydration Salts, is a simple solution that helps treat water loss caused by diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, or heat. It's especially beneficial for children and the elderly. The World Health Organization (WHO) established its formula many years ago. It requires mixing six teaspoons of sugar and half a teaspoon of salt in one liter of clean water. It contains no flavors, colors, or extra chemicals. This solution balances sodium, potassium, and glucose, which helps water be absorbed quickly. Doctors say that proper ORS can even save lives, as dehydration affects millions of people every year.

 

What is going on in the market?

Many companies were being clever and labeling their energy drinks, flavored powders, or ready-to-drink bottles as ORS. The packaging would prominently state "ORS Drink" or "ORS Powder," but instead of glucose, they would use cheap sugar, artificial flavors like orange, lemon, or lime, and coloring. People would buy these, thinking they were real ORS, but instead of benefiting the body, they could be causing harm. In fact, the wrong composition can disrupt the electrolyte balance.

 

Why did FSSAI take action?

FSSAI was continuously receiving complaints that many people have fallen ill due to such products being sold in the name of ORS. FSSAI officials say that this is fraud. Companies were using the name ORS for marketing because ORS is a medical term that gives people confidence. According to WHO standards, ORS should contain 13.5 grams of glucose anhydrous, 2.6 grams of sodium chloride, 1.5 grams of potassium chloride, and 2.9 grams of sodium citrate per liter. Homemade ORS is also based on this, but market products do not contain all of this. After this decision, customers will now be able to know whether the product is genuine ORS or not by looking at the packet.