The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a clarification regarding the use of the word “Tea” on packaged food products. The regulator observed that some Food Business Operators (FBOs) are selling products like herbal tea, rooibos tea, and flower tea, even though these products are not made from actual tea leaves.
What Legally Qualifies as Tea
According to FSSAI regulations, tea can only be made from the plant Camellia sinensis. This includes regular tea, green tea, instant tea, and Kangra tea. Any drink or infusion that does not come from this plant cannot legally be called tea. This standard is clearly defined under the Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011.
Why Using “Tea” for Herbal Drinks Is Misleading
FSSAI explained that using the word “tea” for plant based or herbal infusions that do not contain Camellia sinensis is misleading for consumers. Under the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020, food labels must clearly state the true nature of the product on the front of the pack. Calling herbal or flower based drinks “tea” may confuse buyers and is considered misbranding under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
How Herbal Infusions Should Be Classified
Products that are not derived from Camellia sinensis cannot be sold as tea. Depending on their ingredients, such products may fall under proprietary foods, or non specified food categories, which require approval under relevant FSSAI regulations. Proper classification and approval are mandatory before such products are sold in the market.
FSSAI has directed all food businesses and e-commerce platforms involved in manufacturing, packaging, importing, or selling these products to stop using the word “Tea” for items that are not made from tea leaves.
Strict Monitoring and Enforcement
The food authority has asked State and UT Food Safety Commissioners, along with FSSAI Regional Directors, to ensure strict compliance. Food Safety Officers have been instructed to monitor the market closely, including online platforms. Any business found violating these rules may face legal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Date: 28 December 2025
Time: 10 AM to 5 PM
Fee: Rs 1500
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