Notice issued to many famous beverage brands including Red Bull, Sting
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued notices to many famous beverage brands including Red Bull, Sting. FSSAI says that there is no recognition or set standard for the name “energy drink” in the food safety rules of India. In such a situation, companies may come under the ambit of rules for selling their products as ‘energy drinks’ and making claims like increasing energy. Along with this, Maharashtra government has also shown strictness on the sale of such products near schools.
These brands got notice
FSSAI said that it has sent notices to Hell Energy Drink, Adrenaline Rush Energy Drink, Red Bull Energy Drink and Sting Energy Drink. The regulatory body says that no separate standard has been set for ‘energy drinks’ in India. Therefore, the use of this name and the claims related to it may mislead consumers. FSSAI also clarified that the food category system cannot be used to determine the name or labeling of a product.
Objection expressed on these claims
FSSAI has also objected to the claims of the companies that these drinks increase energy in the body, improve focus, make the mind active or help in removing general weakness. According to the regulator, such therapeutic or functional claims for food products are not acceptable under the rules. FSSAI said it will further tighten monitoring on branding and labeling to prevent consumers from getting confused.
Maharashtra government also took a big step
Here, the Maharashtra government has decided that Sting and other intoxicants will not be sold within 500 meters of schools. This decision has been taken keeping in mind the health of the children. State Food and Drug Administration Minister Narhari Jhirwal said that if such products are found being sold near any school, immediate action will be taken against the people concerned. Besides, instructions have also been given to schools to run awareness campaigns among students. Health experts believe that such beverages contain high amounts of caffeine and sugar, which can have a negative impact on children.
