FSSAI – Food Regulator Issues Notices to Major Energy Drink Brands
FSSAI – The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated action against six beverage companies over product labelling and promotional claims linked to drinks marketed as energy beverages. The regulator said the notices concern possible misbranding and claims that may not be allowed under existing food safety rules.
Brands Named in FSSAI Action
The companies and products named by the authority include Red Bull Energy Drink, PepsiCo India’s Adrenaline Rush Energy Drink, Reliance Consumer Products’ Campa Energy Drink Gold Boost, Sting Energy Drink, Hell Energy and Monster Energy, which is backed by Coca-Cola.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, FSSAI said it had sent notices to several beverage brands that were presenting their products as “energy drinks”. The authority said such descriptions could create an impression that is not supported by the regulatory framework governing food products in India.
No Separate Standard for Energy Drinks
FSSAI clarified that it has not prescribed a specific standard for products classified as “energy drinks” or for similar beverages. According to the regulator, companies should not rely on such a term in a way that suggests an officially recognised product category.
The authority also pointed out that food businesses have used phrases such as “energy drink” on packaging, labels and other branding material. It said the Food Category System mentioned in FSSAI regulations is designed for regulatory classification and should not be treated as a naming guide for products sold to consumers.
Claims on Focus and Energy Questioned
The food regulator said food products cannot make functional or therapeutic claims unless they are permitted under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and related regulations.
FSSAI specifically referred to claims suggesting that a drink can improve mental alertness, increase concentration, raise energy levels, support the body and mind, or help with general weakness. Such statements, the authority said, are not permitted when used to market ordinary food and beverage products.
The regulator’s position is aimed at ensuring that consumers are not influenced by claims that may imply medical, therapeutic or performance-related benefits without regulatory approval.
Consumer Complaints Also Considered
FSSAI said it has been taking action against food business operators in recent weeks over cases involving incorrect labelling, misleading advertising and claims that do not comply with food safety regulations.
Some of the notices have reportedly been issued after consumer complaints were received by the authority. The regulator has not indicated whether the companies named in the latest action will face further penalties, but the notices require businesses to respond to the concerns raised.
Industry Compliance Under Review
The development highlights increased regulatory attention on packaged food and beverage marketing in India, especially where product labels use terms that may influence consumer perception. Companies selling such beverages may now need to review their packaging, advertising material and health-related messaging to ensure compliance with FSSAI rules.