India’s food regulator has issued a fresh compliance alert as FSSAI warns food businesses against labeling herbal infusions as ‘tea’, tightening rules around product descriptions and consumer transparency. The advisory aims to prevent misleading claims and ensure that consumers clearly understand what they are purchasing, especially in the rapidly growing wellness and herbal beverage segment.
The move signals stricter enforcement of food labeling norms at a time when herbal drinks are increasingly marketed as healthier alternatives to traditional beverages.
What the FSSAI Warning Is About
The warning clarifies that products made from herbs, flowers, fruits, or spices cannot be labeled as “tea” unless they are derived from Camellia sinensis, the plant that defines traditional tea. Herbal infusions, despite being brewed like tea, fall under a different food category and must be labeled accordingly.
By stating that FSSAI warns food businesses against labeling herbal infusions as ‘tea’, the regulator is emphasizing the legal and scientific definition of tea under Indian food standards.
Why FSSAI Issued the Advisory
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India issued the warning after observing widespread misuse of the term “tea” on packaging of herbal and wellness drinks. Such labeling can mislead consumers into assuming nutritional or functional properties associated with traditional tea.
The advisory is intended to protect consumer interests, promote accurate information, and ensure fair competition among food businesses that comply with labeling laws.
Impact on Food and Beverage Companies
The directive means that companies selling herbal infusions will need to review and update product labels, marketing materials, and advertisements. Businesses that continue to use the word “tea” incorrectly may face regulatory action, including penalties, product recalls, or suspension of licenses.
For brands operating in the wellness and herbal segment, this could involve redesigning packaging and re-educating consumers about product categories.
Difference Between Tea and Herbal Infusions
Under Indian regulations, tea refers specifically to products made from processed leaves of the tea plant. Herbal infusions, on the other hand, are beverages prepared by steeping herbs, roots, spices, or flowers in hot water.
The FSSAI warning reinforces that while both may be consumed similarly, they are legally distinct and must not be marketed interchangeably.
What This Means for Consumers
For consumers, the advisory improves clarity and trust. Accurate labeling ensures that buyers know whether they are purchasing traditional tea or a herbal beverage with different ingredients and effects.
As FSSAI warns food businesses against labeling herbal infusions as ‘tea’, shoppers can expect clearer packaging and fewer misleading health associations in the future.
Compliance Timeline and Enforcement
While the regulator has not specified an immediate deadline, food businesses are expected to comply promptly. Industry experts believe enforcement actions may increase in the coming months as part of broader food safety and labeling checks.
Companies are advised to align their products with existing food standards to avoid legal and reputational risks.
Broader Implications for the Wellness Market
India’s herbal and wellness beverage market has grown rapidly, driven by rising health awareness. The FSSAI’s move highlights the need for stronger regulation as the category expands.
Clear definitions and honest labeling could help the market mature while maintaining consumer confidence.
Conclusion
The advisory that FSSAI warns food businesses against labeling herbal infusions as ‘tea’ marks an important step toward transparency and regulatory discipline in India’s food and beverage sector. By reinforcing clear definitions, the regulator aims to protect consumers and ensure fair practices across the industry.
As enforcement tightens, food businesses will need to prioritize compliance, accuracy, and consumer education to stay on the right side of the law.
