India's Food Safety and Standards Authority (FSSAI) has issued fresh guidelines directing manufacturers to stop using the term "Energy Drink" on beverage labels, saying the phrase may mislead consumers into believing the products provide health or performance benefits. The regulator has also advised companies not to make claims suggesting these drinks improve energy, concentration or physical performance without appropriate evidence.
According to the advisory, consumers should carefully read ingredient labels before purchasing such beverages. Many products marketed as energy drinks contain high amounts of caffeine, sugar and artificial additives that may pose health risks when consumed frequently.
FSSAI noted that a typical 250–300 ml can may contain 90–95 milligrams or more of caffeine, significantly higher than the amount many individuals comfortably tolerate in a single serving. Excessive caffeine intake may contribute to acidity, digestive discomfort, acid reflux, sleep disturbances, anxiety and increased heart rate.
The authority also warned against beverages containing 40–50 grams or more of sugar per can, as regular consumption may increase the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders.
Consumers are advised to be cautious of ingredients such as taurine, ginseng and L-carnitine, particularly when combined with high caffeine levels. Labels listing high-fructose corn syrup should also be approached carefully due to potential links with liver and metabolic health concerns.
FSSAI further recommends limiting products containing artificial sweeteners like sucralose and aspartame, as well as synthetic colours including Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6 and Blue 1. Reading nutrition labels and understanding ingredient lists can help consumers make safer and more informed beverage choices.
