India’s food regulator has issued notices to six drinks producers in the country, over allegedly making claims that are misleading.
In a post on Instagram yesterday (1 July), the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) said the notices were for “misbranding and misleading claims”.
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The brands named by the regulator were Red Bull Energy Drink, PepsiCo’s Adrenaline Rush Energy Drink and Sting Energy Drink, Reliance Consumer Products’ Campa Energy Drink – Gold Boost, Coca-Cola-backed Monster Energy and Hell Energy.
In its post, the FSSAI said it has “not notified any standard for ‘energy drink’ or similar products”. It added that the brands have nonetheless been marketed using descriptors such as “energy drink” on packaging and labelling, and on e-commerce platforms.
“Functional or therapeutic claims, including but not limited to vitalises body and mind, enhancing focus, boost energy levels, aid in general weakness, or similar conditions, are not permissible for food products under the FSS Act 2006 and the Rules and Regulations made thereunder,” it said in its Instagram post around its notice for Red Bull.
Just Drinks has approached the FSSAI for more details. It was not immediately clear whether the companies have been asked to remove the claims straight away, or whether they have the right to appeal.
This publication has also approached the named drinks producers for a response.
In recent months, the FSSAI has intensified its action against food business operators.
Last month, it issued a notice to Maggi owner Nestlé after allegations surfaced online about insects and larvae in an instant noodles pack. The regulator sought an action taken report based on consumer complaints circulating on social media. However, Nestlé “categorically” rejected the allegations.
