The Delhi High Court has ruled that sweetened drinks with the ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) label cannot be sold in medical stores. ORS is meant to prevent dehydration during diarrhea and must follow specific WHO-approved proportions of salt, glucose, and minerals. However, many drinks sold in India under the ORS name do not meet these standards. Following complaints, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) investigated and banned the sale of any bottled fruit or sweet drinks using the ORS label without proper approval. The Tamil Nadu Health Department also warned that selling such drinks would lead to strict action and inspections in pharmacies and shops. Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories challenged this ban in the Delhi High Court, but the court dismissed the petition after hearing both sides. Justice Sachin Datta stated that the FSSAI order is valid and essential for public health, leaving no room for compromise. The court also rejected the company’s request to allow the sale of existing ORS-labeled drinks, confirming that the ban will continue.
