Archive · 29 Sep 2026
Why Red Bull Can’t Call Itself an Energy Drink
India’s food regulator has concerns about drinks being called “energy drinks.”
It says the name might make people think the drinks provide special energy or extra health benefits.
The regulator says that impression may not be accurate.
It is also worried about the caffeine and sugar in these beverages.
Some advertisements may make the drinks’ effects sound stronger than they are.
Current rules allow between 145 and 300 milligrams of caffeine per litre.
Labels must tell people not to drink more than 500 millilitres per day.
These concerns affect products such as Red Bull.
FSSAI has raised concerns about the term “energy drink.”
The regulator says the term may imply special energy or added health benefits.
FSSAI cited excessive caffeine and added sugar as concerns.
It questioned promotional claims that may exaggerate the beverages’ effects.
Existing rules allow 145–300 mg of caffeine per litre and limit consumption to 500 ml daily.
- Who
- The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and manufacturers of caffeinated beverages such as Red Bull.
- What
- FSSAI has challenged the use of the term “energy drink” and raised concerns about caffeine, sugar, labeling, and promotional claims.
- Where
- India.
- Why
- FSSAI says the term may create an exaggerated impression of special energy or health benefits and has cited concerns about excessive caffeine and added sugar.
- Regulator
- FSSAI
- Caffeine limit
- 145–300 mg of total caffeine per litre
- Daily consumption declaration
- Consumers should not exceed 500 ml per day
- Products affected
- Carbonated and non-carbonated caffeinated beverages
- Labeling concern
- The term “energy drink” may imply special energy or added health benefits
- Health concerns cited
- Excessive caffeine and added sugar
- Advertising concern
- Promotional claims may exaggerate a beverage’s effects on the body