FSSAI Cracks Down on Misleading Energy Drink Labels in India

The FSSAI has implemented new regulations prohibiting the use of the term 'energy drink' on high-caffeine beverages, citing misleading health claims. Major brands are pushing back against these changes, arguing they could harm business. The Indian Beverage Association has called for a more collaborative approach with regulators. This move is part of a broader effort by FSSAI to tighten food labeling standards and ensure that marketing accurately reflects product contents. As companies adapt to these new rules, the debate over energy drink labeling continues.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2026, 19:05 IST

Regulatory Changes in Energy Drink Labeling

Recently, energy drinks and sugary beverages have come under scrutiny as the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) intensifies its regulations. The authority has mandated that certain companies cease using the term 'energy drink' on products that contain high levels of caffeine. This directive has faced pushback from major brands including Pepsi, Monster, Red Bull, Reliance, and Hell Energy, according to reports.

FSSAI's Position on Energy Drinks

Earlier this month, the FSSAI stated that there are currently no established Indian standards for products labeled as 'energy drinks.' The authority highlighted that claims like 'helps in general weakness' and 'vitalizes body and mind' are misleading and should not appear on packaging. Consequently, the FSSAI has instructed the aforementioned companies to eliminate the term 'energy drink' and similar phrases from their labels. During a recent meeting with industry stakeholders, FSSAI Chief Executive Rajit Punhani dismissed concerns from companies regarding potential business impacts, suggesting they could challenge the ruling legally if they chose. Companies have been given a 60-day period to comply with these changes.

This decision has sparked reactions from various stakeholders. The Indian Beverage Association has called on the FSSAI to reconsider its stance and adopt a more collaborative approach. They submitted a letter expressing that publicizing such notices could harm company reputations, disrupt operations, and confuse consumers. The association emphasized its commitment to adhering to government regulations and collaborating with regulators on science-based policies.

FSSAI's Broader Regulatory Efforts

This latest directive is part of FSSAI's broader initiative to enhance food labeling standards and limit exaggerated health claims in packaged foods and beverages. Over the past year, the regulator has increased its scrutiny of products marketed as healthy or performance-enhancing, insisting that labels accurately represent the products rather than create false expectations. Experts have noted that many so-called energy drinks primarily derive their 'energy' from caffeine and sugar, with some containing taurine and B vitamins, which do not inherently support therapeutic or performance claims. While these products are not banned, the focus remains on ensuring that marketing does not suggest health benefits that lack regulatory backing. Industry representatives are advocating for clearer regulations and the establishment of formal standards for energy drinks, but until such measures are in place, companies must align their branding with the existing FSSAI labeling guidelines.