Delhi High Court stays FSSAI order on energy drink labeling

The Delhi High Court has granted interim relief to several beverage companies challenging a directive from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The regulator had ordered manufacturers of high-caffeine beverages to stop using the term ‘energy drink’ on packaging and in advertising.

Reliance Consumer Products received a stay on the order, allowing its Campa brand to continue using the descriptor. The court noted that the FSSAI had not provided the company with a show-cause notice or an opportunity to be heard before issuing the directive. Similarly, the court stayed the order against PepsiCo and Monster Beverage, permitting them to sell existing stock labeled as ‘energy drinks,’ though they are barred from manufacturing new products with that specific descriptor.

Other companies, including Red Bull, have also secured legal reprieves. The beverage makers argue that the crackdown causes significant commercial disruption and ignores previous regulatory advisories. The FSSAI maintains that its regulations recognize these products as caffeinated beverages rather than a distinct statutory category of ‘energy drinks’.

The legal proceedings are expected to continue, with the next major hearing scheduled for November 5.