FSSAI won't ease 'energy drink' label deadline for PepsiCo, Red Bull, Monster & others
India's food safety regulator, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), has decided not to extend the 90-day deadline for beverage companies to change their labeling for energy drinks. This decision comes amidst growing concerns over the health implications of high-caffeine beverages. Major global brands like PepsiCo, Red Bull, and Monster had requested a one-year extension to comply with the new regulations, but the FSSAI has firmly stated that the deadline will remain unchanged. The energy drink market in India has been experiencing rapid growth, with retail sales increasing by 12.6% annually. In the past five years, sales nearly doubled, reaching approximately 907 million liters last year. However, the FSSAI's ruling poses a significant challenge for these companies, as many have substantial inventories labeled as "energy drinks" that must be rebranded swiftly to avoid legal repercussions. Additionally, some state governments have begun seizing existing stocks of these beverages, further complicating matters for the industry. Companies are now navigating a landscape of regulatory scrutiny and public health concerns, as energy drinks face increased scrutiny globally for their high caffeine and sugar content. As the beverage giants seek support from the government, the future of energy drinks in India hangs in the balance.
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