The sale of misleading and fake Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) beverages has faced a major blow following a landmark ban issued by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). This crucial regulatory action is the result of an eight-year legal fight championed by Dr. Shivarajani Santosh, a pediatrician from Hyderabad.

The widely recognized ORS is a life-saving solution used to combat dehydration caused by glucose malabsorption-related health issues. However, the market became flooded with numerous energy drinks and other beverages incorrectly labeled as ORS, leading to confusion among consumers.

Dr. Shivarajani Santosh dedicated nearly a decade to a persistent legal campaign against this deceptive practice. In a significant recent order, the FSSAI has banned the use of the 'ORS' label on products, including fruit-based drinks, that are not formulated according to mandated standards.

A Victory Against Misleading Public -

Dr. Santosh successfully pursued a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Hyderabad court in 2022, challenging the misleading labeling of fruit drinks and other beverages as ORS. Her relentless fight against the misrepresentation and deception of the public has finally culminated in a victory, marking a severe setback for the sellers of these imitation ORS products.

She had persistently argued that these inaccurately labeled beverages offered no genuine therapeutic benefit and posed a public health risk. Despite facing numerous dismissals and being overlooked initially, she continued to pursue the issue in court to ensure public safety.

WHO Formula is Mandatory -

The FSSAI order, issued on October 14, strictly mandates that only beverages formulated and functioning according to the specific composition and parameters outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO) formula can be labeled and sold as ORS. Fastrack Stunners Analog Silver Dial Pink Leather Strap Watch for Girls - NS6152SL08

The FSSAI has clearly stated that Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) is a medical-grade formulation containing specific ratios of salts and glucose (excluding carbonation) as per WHO guidelines. Dr. Santosh successfully demonstrated to the authority that other beverages do not meet these crucial criteria and cannot be marketed as ORS, prompting the regulatory body to issue a stern warning of strict action against any future violators. Also Read: Biocon Chief Kiran Mazumdar Shaw Steps Up to Repair Bengaluru Roads at Her Own Expense..!!