Archive · 26 Dec 2025
FSSAI Bans Labeling Herbal Infusions as Tea
The FSSAI, which is like the food safety police in India, said that only drinks made from a special plant called Camellia sinensis can be called 'Tea'.
This includes things like Kangra Tea and Green Tea.
They told companies that they can't call other plant drinks like 'Herbal Tea' or 'Flower Tea' as 'Tea' because that would be like telling a lie on the label.
The FSSAI wants all food companies, including those selling things online, to follow these rules and not trick people by using the word 'Tea' for things that aren't really tea.
If companies don't follow these rules, they might get in trouble.
Some people who make herbal infusions might not like this rule, but the tea associations are happy because it clears up confusion for people who buy tea.
FSSAI prohibits labeling herbal or plant-based infusions as 'Tea' to prevent misbranding.
Only beverages derived from Camellia sinensis (e.g., Kangra Tea, Green Tea) can be labeled as 'Tea'.
Companies, including e-commerce platforms, must comply with FSSAI standards and avoid misleading labels.
States and UTs are directed to enforce these standards and take action against non-compliance.
Non-compliance may result in penalties under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
- Who
- Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
- What
- Banned labeling herbal or plant-based infusions as 'Tea'
- When
- December 25, 2025
- Where
- India
- Why
- To prevent misbranding and ensure accurate labeling of tea products
FSSAI and Tea Associations
Herbal Infusion Producers
Definition of Tea
FSSAI and Tea Associations
Only products derived from Camellia sinensis can be labeled as 'Tea' to prevent misbranding.
Herbal Infusion Producers
Herbal infusions should be allowed to use the term 'Tea' as it is a common consumer understanding.
Consumer Protection
FSSAI and Tea Associations
The regulation protects consumers from misleading labels and ensures they get authentic tea products.
Herbal Infusion Producers
The regulation may limit consumer choice and access to a variety of herbal infusions.
- Authority
- Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
- Regulation
- Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011
- Allowed Tea Types
- Camellia sinensis derivatives (e.g., Kangra Tea, Green Tea, Instant Tea)
- Prohibited Labels
- Rooibos Tea, Herbal Tea, Flower Tea, etc.
- Compliance Deadline
- Immediate
- Penalty
- Action under Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
- Supporting Organization
- North Eastern Tea Association (NETA)
Sources
FSSAI says herbal or plant-based infusions cannot be labeled as “Tea”
Are You Really Drinking Tea? Food Regulator Clears The Air On What Counts As ‘Tea’
Only Camellia sinensis products can be marketed as tea: FSSAI
FSSAI warns food businesses against labeling herbal infusions as ‘tea’
FSSAI cracks down on 'fake teas: Herbal blends now banned from using 'tea' label
Herbal Vs Flower Vs Real Tea, Which Is Healthiest? Food Regulator Rule Sparks Health Questions
