Clarification regarding the use of the word “Tea”

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a clarification regarding the misuse of the word “Tea” by some food business operators. As per standard 2.10.1 of Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, only products made from the plant Camellia sinensis can be called “Tea” (like green tea, black tea, Kangra tea, instant tea). Using the word “Tea” for products such as herbal infusions, rooibos, or flower blends is considered misleading and misbranding. Therefore, Food businesses including e‑commerce platforms, must stop labeling non‑Camellia sinensis products as “Tea.” Instead, they should categorize and label such food products correctly based on their ingredients. Any violation will lead to action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.