In a landmark decision set to redefine India's beverage shelves, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has cracked down on the widespread use of the word "tea." The regulator has issued a strict directive, prohibiting food businesses from branding herbal or plant-based infusions as "tea," a move aimed at protecting consumers and authentic tea growers.
The Core Directive: What Constitutes Real Tea?
In a clarification issued on Wednesday, FSSAI has laid down a clear, scientific definition. The term "tea" can now only be used for products derived exclusively from the Camellia sinensis plant. This is the true tea plant responsible for varieties like black tea, green tea, Kangra tea, and instant tea in solid form.
The authority stated that any plant-based, herbal, or floral infusion not sourced from this specific plant does not qualify to be named tea. Using the word "tea" directly or indirectly for such products is considered misleading and constitutes misbranding under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
This action addresses FSSAI's observation that many Food Business Operators (FBOs), including e-commerce platforms, were marketing items like "Rooibos Tea," "Herbal Tea," and "Flower Tea." The 2011 Food Product Standards and Food Additives regulations are now being strictly enforced to curb this practice.
Industry Applauds: A Win for Authenticity and Clarity
The directive has been warmly welcomed by the traditional tea industry, particularly in Assam, the world's largest tea-growing region. Bidyananda Barkakoty, adviser of the North Eastern Tea Association (NETA), expressed strong support for FSSAI's clarification.
"We are very happy with this much-needed clarification from the food safety regulator of India," Barkakoty said. He emphasized that this precise definition will eliminate ambiguity and confusion for consumers who often mistake herbal blends for true tea.
Barkakoty further bolstered the argument by pointing to international standards, noting that even the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes only Camellia sinensis-based tea as a beverage with potential health benefits, not herbal infusions.
Market Impact: Wellness Brands Face Rebranding Challenge
The FSSAI order is poised to send ripples through India's rapidly expanding wellness and beverage market. Thousands of products currently sold as herbal or detox teas will need immediate rebranding.
Key consequences include:
- E-commerce platforms and retailers must relist numerous products under new names like "herbal infusions," "botanical blends," or "tisanes."
- Smaller wellness brands that relied on the familiar "tea" tag for consumer recognition may face marketing and visibility challenges.
- Consumers will see clearer labeling, ensuring that when they buy "tea," they are guaranteed genuine Camellia sinensis leaves.
For Assam's and Darjeeling's iconic tea industries, this enforcement acts as a crucial safeguard. It reinforces the global reputation and value of their produce by preventing dilution of the term "tea."
As enforcement begins, the wellness market enters a period of significant adjustment. However, the message from the regulator is unequivocal: the cherished word "tea" is now the legal and exclusive right of products from the Camellia sinensis plant, preserving its legacy for India's authentic tea growers.
