The ORSL controversy has reignited a national debate on the classification and safety of oral rehydration drinks in India. Many of these beverages are marketed under the ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) label, even though they do not meet World Health Organization (WHO) standards. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) intervened, directing companies to stop using “ORS” branding on non-compliant products to prevent consumer confusion. However, a Delhi High Court stay order temporarily halted enforcement, creating what many call FSSAI’s “sweet confusion.”
Hyderabad Doctor’s Allegations
The issue gained traction after Dr. Sivaranjani Santosh, a paediatrician from Hyderabad, alleged that some commercial beverages branded as “ORS” or “ORSL” contained excessive sugar and were misleading consumers. She warned that such products could harm children by promoting sugary drinks instead of medically approved ORS solutions.
Key Allegations
- Some companies were marketing high-sugar drinks as “ORS” or “ORS-Lite” despite not meeting WHO standards.
- The products were often sold alongside genuine ORS sachets in pharmacies, confusing consumers.
- Dr. Santosh accused FSSAI of allowing companies to dispose of ORSL stocks rather than fully enforcing the ban.
Social Media Viral Claims
Following the FSSAI directive, social media exploded with claims that the regulator had permitted the sale or disposal of ORSL beverages. These viral posts were later debunked by FSSAI, which clarified that it had not authorised any sale of non-compliant ORSL products. Fact-checkers confirmed that misinformation was circulating widely, leading to further confusion among consumers.
Sale of ORSL — Court Stay vs Regulator
FSSAI’s advisory, issued in mid-October 2025, prohibited the use of “ORS” on products that didn’t match WHO formulations. Shortly after, the Delhi High Court granted an interim stay on the order, allowing select companies to continue selling disputed beverages pending a final decision. While the court’s decision does not amount to approval, it has delayed the regulator’s enforcement and created mixed signals in the market.
Why It’s Called “FSSAI’s Sweet Confusion”
The phrase “FSSAI’s sweet confusion” reflects the conflicting communications between regulatory actions and court interventions. FSSAI maintains that it never permitted sale or disposal of non-compliant products, yet the stay order has allowed continued sales. The resulting overlap of regulatory caution, judicial relief, and viral misinformation has created uncertainty for both consumers and retailers.
What Consumers and Retailers Should Do
- Buy only WHO-approved ORS sachets from licensed pharmacies.
- Check labels carefully—avoid drinks using “ORS” branding unless medically certified.
- Retailers should follow FSSAI advisories and maintain compliance documentation until final court orders are issued.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. The regulatory position of ORSL and similar beverages is still under legal review. Readers should rely on official FSSAI updates and court rulings for the latest developments.
FAQs
Q1: Has FSSAI banned ORSL in India?
A1: FSSAI has restricted the use of the “ORS” label on non-compliant beverages. However, a Delhi High Court stay order has temporarily allowed continued sales pending further hearings.
Q2: Did FSSAI approve sale or disposal of ORSL stocks?
A2: No. FSSAI has denied granting any approval for the sale or disposal of ORSL beverages that fail to meet WHO standards. Viral claims suggesting otherwise are false.
Q3: What should consumers do if they see “ORS” on commercial drinks?
A3: Verify if the product lists WHO-approved composition. For medical use, rely on certified ORS sachets available in pharmacies rather than flavored beverages marketed as “ORS.”
