FDA Orders Manufacturers to Stop Labeling Products as Energy Drinks in Mumbai
On Friday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) ordered manufacturers in Mumbai to stop labeling their products as "energy drinks," stating that no such classification exists under food safety laws. FDA Commissioner Tukaram Munde announced that the FSSAI has officially issued notices to 10 to 12 manufacturers of these beverages.
Commissioner Munde explained that while there are clear specifications, content limits, and labeling criteria for various beverages—such as caffeinated, aerated, carbonated, or non-alcoholic drinks—the term "energy drinks" is not a recognized category under FSSAI regulations. Because of this, manufacturers have been directed to immediately desist from using the label. The FDA chief added that the administration will actively take action against any violations of the FSSAI’s established labeling and advertising standards.
The controversy surrounding these beverages also reached the state legislature on Friday. Multiple Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) raised concerns regarding the sale of drinks like "Sting," "Cutting Paan," and flavored milk directly outside school premises. During the legislative session, some MLAs claimed that in certain cases, narcotic drugs were being supplied to students through these products.
In response to these concerns, Munde told the media that these so-called energy drinks already carry printed warning labels advising against consumption by minors and pregnant women. While the government is not banning the products outright, officials have barred them from being sold within a 500-meter radius of any school.
To ensure compliance and protect students, the FDA is currently training school teachers across the state. The training program is designed to help teachers understand the safety regulations governing these drinks, as well as the rules for other food products sold in school canteens and around school premises.
