The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) recently issued a directive stating that only beverages derived from the Camellia sinensis plant can be labelled as tea. The authority aims to prevent unfair labelling practises that could mislead consumers. The FSSAI has issued this directive amid brands introducing teas in various flavours. 

Drinks that are brewed with flowers, spices or herbs are often labelled as tea. However, the FSSAI has discovered that these drinks are not derived from the real tea plant. FSSAI recommends that green tea, Kangra tea, and instant tea should be prepared from Camellia sinensis. The latest directive applies to producers, importers, and e-commerce platforms. The authority warns that strict action would be taken against brands that label drinks brewed from spices or other plants as tea for misbranding.

How to buy safe, healthy tea?
According to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, only pure, plant-derived tea, which is traditionally prepared and minimally processed, qualifies as tea. They should not contain artificial colours, contaminants, or adulterants. While purchasing tea powder from stores, customers can also check the ingredient list on the packet to see whether ‘tea’ or ‘camellia sinensis’ is listed. Also, examine whether it is written whether the tea is flavoured and whether it mentions its types, such as green, black, Kangra, or instant tea. Details on standards, labelling and ingredients are also available here.