The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) on Thursday said that the term “tea” cannot be used on labels of herbal or plant-based infusions as it will amount to misbranding. It pointed out that only beverages derived from Camellia sinensis including Kangra Tea, Green Tea and Instant Tea can be labelled as Tea. It has directed food companies including e-commerce platforms to comply with the requisite standards and refrain from misbranding tea products. It has also asked states and UTs to ensure adherence to standards in this regard and take action.

“It has come to the notice of FSSAI that some Food Business Operators (FBOs) are marketing products that are not obtained from the plant Camellia sinensis under the name ‘Tea’, such as ‘Rooibos Tea’, ‘Herbal Tea’, ‘Flower Tea’, among others,” the Authority stated in an advisory.

It is clarified that, as per standards specified in the Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, the term “Tea”, including Kangra Tea, Green Tea and Instant Tea in solid form, can be exclusively from the plant Camellia sinensis.

Stating that every food package must carry the “true nature” of the food contained in the package on the front of pack, it added the use of the word “Tea” directly or indirectly for any other plant-based or herbal infusions or blends not derived from Camellia sinensis is misleading and amounts to misbranding.

“As per the aforementioned regulation, such plant-based or herbal infusions or blends, which are not derived from Camellia sinensis, do not qualify to be named as Tea,” it added.

All Food Business Operators including e-commerce engaged in manufacturing, packing, marketing, import or sale of such products are directed to comply with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Regulation and refrain from using the term “Tea” for any products not derived from Camellia sinensis, it added. 

The Authority directed Food Safety Commissioners of all states and UTs and Regional Directors to direct the Designated Officers and Food Safety Officers under their jurisdiction to monitor and ensure strict adherence to these provisions by the Food Business Operators including e-commerce.

“In case of non-compliance, necessary action shall be initiated as per the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006,” it added.

Published on December 25, 2025