FSSAI Tightens Tea Labelling Rules for Herbal Products
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued guidelines restricting the use of the term 'tea' exclusively to beverages derived from Camellia sinensis plants. This directive aims to prevent misleading labeling in the herbal beverage market. Products not containing Camellia sinensis, including herbal and flower infusions, are no longer allowed to use the 'tea' label. FSSAI classifies inappropriate use as misbranding under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The regulations apply to all stakeholders in the food supply chain, including e-commerce platforms, manufacturers, and retailers. State officials are instructed to ensure strict compliance across all channels.
*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued stringent guidelines restricting the use of the term 'tea' exclusively to beverages derived from Camellia sinensis plants. The regulatory directive aims to eliminate misleading labelling practices in the herbal beverage market and ensure consumer clarity regarding product composition.
Regulatory Clarification on Tea Definition
FSSAI's directive establishes clear parameters for tea labelling, specifying that only infusions derived from Camellia sinensis qualify for the 'tea' designation. The regulatory body identified widespread misuse of the term across various herbal and plant-based products that do not contain the traditional tea plant.
| Product Category | Compliance Status |
|---|---|
| Camellia sinensis-based products | Permitted to use 'tea' label |
| Kangra tea | Compliant |
| Green tea | Compliant |
| Instant tea | Compliant |
| Rooibos tea | Non-compliant |
| Herbal tea | Non-compliant |
| Flower tea | Non-compliant |
Misbranding Violations and Legal Framework
The regulatory authority has classified the inappropriate use of 'tea' labelling as misbranding and misleading practices under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. FSSAI's investigation revealed numerous food business operators marketing products with 'tea' designations despite lacking Camellia sinensis content.
The directive emphasizes that plant-based or herbal infusions and blends not derived from Camellia sinensis do not qualify for tea nomenclature. This classification extends to all product variations and marketing materials, requiring comprehensive compliance across the supply chain.
Compliance Requirements for Food Business Operators
FSSAI has issued comprehensive compliance directives targeting all stakeholders in the food supply chain. The regulations apply to diverse business categories, ensuring uniform implementation across different market segments.
| Business Category | Compliance Requirement |
|---|---|
| E-commerce platforms | Mandatory compliance |
| Manufacturing units | Direct labelling compliance |
| Packaging companies | Label verification required |
| Marketing agencies | Advertisement compliance |
| Import businesses | Product classification compliance |
| Retail outlets | Sales compliance |
The regulatory body has specifically directed all food business operators to refrain from using the term 'tea' directly or indirectly for products not derived from Camellia sinensis. This comprehensive approach ensures consistent application across all marketing channels and distribution networks.
Implementation and Enforcement Measures
FSSAI has instructed state officials to ensure strict adherence to these provisions by all food business operators, including online retailers. The enforcement mechanism involves coordination between central regulatory guidelines and state-level implementation agencies to maintain consistent compliance standards.
The regulatory framework addresses the growing complexity of the herbal beverage market while protecting consumer interests through accurate product labelling. State authorities will monitor compliance across traditional retail channels and emerging e-commerce platforms to ensure comprehensive implementation of the new guidelines.
Conclusion
FSSAI has clarified that only beverages derived from Camellia sinensis can be labeled as 'tea'. The authority has warned against misbranding of herbal infusions and plant-based blends as tea products. This move aims to prevent misleading labeling practices and ensure consumers are accurately informed about the nature of the products they purchase.
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