Archive · 29 Jul 2026
FSSAI Orders Removal of 'Energy Drink' Label
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has told companies that sell high-caffeine drinks to stop using the term 'energy drink' on their bottles and cans.
They say this term doesn't have a clear definition in India and could trick people into thinking these drinks are healthy.
Companies have 90 days to change their labels.
Some companies, like PepsiCo, are worried this will hurt their sales, but FSSAI says they can go to court if they disagree.
Other countries, like England, are also worried about these drinks because they have a lot of caffeine and sugar.
The companies say they will follow the rules but think they should be consulted before big changes like this are made.
FSSAI directs companies to remove 'energy drink' labels from high-caffeine beverages.
Companies have 90 days to comply with the directive.
FSSAI warns against misleading health claims on beverage labels.
Beverage companies express concerns over potential impact on brands and sales.
Global health concerns over high-caffeine drinks are increasing.
- Who
- Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and beverage companies including PepsiCo and Red Bull
- What
- FSSAI has directed companies to remove the 'energy drink' label from high-caffeine beverages
- When
- Companies have 90 days to comply with the directive
- Where
- India
- Why
- To prevent misleading health claims and ensure compliance with regulatory standards
FSSAI's Regulatory Stance
Beverage Industry Concerns
Labeling Standards
FSSAI's Regulatory Stance
FSSAI argues that the term 'energy drink' lacks defined standards in India and could mislead consumers with health claims.
Beverage Industry Concerns
Beverage companies, including PepsiCo, express concerns that removing the term could negatively impact their brands and sales.
Regulatory Process
FSSAI's Regulatory Stance
FSSAI maintains that its directives are based on scientific evidence and consumer protection.
Beverage Industry Concerns
The Indian Beverage Association suggests that companies should be consulted before major regulations are introduced to ensure transparency and reduce disputes.
- Regulator
- Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
- Compliance Deadline
- 90 days
- Key Companies Affected
- PepsiCo, Red Bull
- Health Concerns
- High caffeine, sugar, and taurine content
- Global Context
- England plans to ban sales to children under 16 from April 2025