The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has announced that no brand can label a product as Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) unless it follows the formula recommended by the World Health Organization. The directive issued on October 14 sets out strict rules on how food businesses can use the term. “Not only can they not use ORS, but they can’t sell it as of today, right now. No misleading products with ORS can be sold. We won the battle. We won it. They can’t sell it anymore,” said Dr. Sivaranjani Santosh, a pediatrician who fights against misbranded ORS, in an Instagram post.
Why is ORS important?
ORS is a life-saving solution made of sugar, salt, and pure water that is used to treat dehydration caused by diarrhea, vomiting, or heat. Its effectiveness comes from glucose, which helps the body absorb water and salt.
Dr. Santosh explained that many brands across India sell drinks labeled as glucose-free ORS. “If the formula changes, it won’t work,” she said.
What led to the ban?
FSSAI first issued a directive in April 2022 to stop misleading advertisements promoting products as “ORS substitutes”. The move was intended to prevent consumers from thinking that flavored drinks or electrolyte drinks are medically equivalent to WHO-approved ORS.
What is the correct ORS formula?
WHO recommends a simple mix for ORS:
Doctors point out that using too much sugar or salt or adding other ingredients such as fruit powders or spirulina can reduce its effectiveness.
How can you tell if an ORS is genuine?
Experts recommend the following to ensure the ORS is genuine:
Check the formula: Use only the mixture recommended by the WHO.
Avoid sugar substitutes: Sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit cannot replace glucose.
Skip the extra ingredients: Spirulina, fruit powders, or herbal blends are not included in ORS.
Ignore random influencers: Follow only the advice of certified doctors or medical experts.
Use ORS Sachets: Sachets from WHO approved pharmacies are pre-measured and safe.
Doctors warn that while flavored drinks may seem convenient, “when it comes to your baby’s health, it’s always better to double check.”
