The surge in advertisements and trending reels or videos on social media promoting caffeinated beverages has undeniably caught the attention of youngsters. However, there are many health hazards also with this. In India, the caffeinated beverage sector is a billion-dollar industry, and has an annual growth at a rate of 20-25%.
Nevertheless, it's essential to highlight that caffeinated drinks are subject to FSSAI registration regulations. In this blog, we shall see the reasons why caffeinated beverages require FSSAI regulations, emphasising the FSSAI standards for soft and energy drinks in this rapidly growing industry.
FSSAI Regulations on Caffeinated Beverages
The surging popularity of caffeinated products, like cola and energy drinks, has given rise to widespread affection and dependency. This trend is particularly noticeable among teenagers and young adults, including students in schools and colleges, who turn to these beverages to boost concentration, endurance, and stamina.
Features of Caffeinated Beverages
Caffeinated beverages are fizzy, non-alcoholic drinks that include caffeine along with additional ingredients and additives. However, concerns about the health risks are also there with these drinks. Caffeine overdose, leading to overstimulation, palpitations, and behavioural abnormalities, poses risks for both children and adults.
The consumption of caffeinated beverages has become a new coming trend, and in response to this trend, The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has implemented new FSSAI standards for soft and energy drinks under the Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011. These FSSAI standards for soft and energy drinks specifically address caffeinated beverages and the use of blue tint in plastic bottles, falling under the category of Beverages Non-alcoholic Carbonated Food Products. The regulatory changes were enforced on November 4, 2016, with immediate impact.
Benefits of FSSAI Registration for Soft and Energy Drinks
Mentioned here are some major benefits of FSSAI licence for soft and energy drinks:
- Legal Compliance and Consumer Trust:
FSSAI registration is a mandatory legal requirement for the production and sale of soft and energy drinks in India. This builds consumer trust, signifying compliance with food safety and quality standards.
- Quality Assurance:
FSSAI ensures that ingredients meet prescribed standards, maintaining high production standards and preventing the use of substandard or harmful substances.
- Consumer Safety:
Registration focuses on ensuring soft and energy drinks are safe for consumption, preventing contamination, adulteration, or the use of unauthorised substances.
- Standardisation of Ingredients:
FSSAI sets guidelines for ingredient use, ensuring standardisation and promoting consistency in product quality across the market.
- Product Labelling and Information:
Registration mandates accurate and clear labelling, providing consumers with detailed information on ingredients, nutritional content, and other essential details.
- Facilitation of International Trade:
Enhances credibility in the international market, facilitating smoother trade and export processes by meeting FSSAI standards.
- Market Competitiveness:
FSSAI registration gives a competitive edge, demonstrating a commitment to quality and safety, and making businesses preferred by distributors, retailers, and consumers.
- Prompt Recall Procedures:
Ensures manufacturers have established procedures for swift and effective recalls in case of safety concerns, minimising potential harm to consumers.
- Access to a Growing Market:
Being FSSAI registered opens doors to a larger market, as many retailers and distributors prefer products that comply with regulatory standards.
FSSAI Standards for Soft and Energy Drinks
Mentioned below are the key FSSAI standards for soft and energy drinks:
Packaged Drinking Water Criteria
In accordance with the 2011 Food Safety and Standards Regulations, the water used in caffeinated beverages must adhere to the criteria established for packaged drinking water.
Caffeine Composition Guidelines
The FSSAI recommends specific guidelines for the composition of caffeine in beverages. The acceptable caffeine content should not be less than 145 mg per litre and should not exceed 300 mg per litre.
Authorisation for Optional Ingredients
Food business operators intending to add substances to caffeinated drinks, such as flavours, artificial sweeteners, additives, and sweeteners, must obtain authorisation from the FSSAI portal.
Labelling Requirements for Caffeinated Beverages
Caffeinated beverages must be labelled with a maximum daily intake limit of 500 ml. Additionally, the inclusion of vitamins in caffeinated drinks should comply with the recommended daily amount.
Maximum Consumption Limits for Specific Substances
The FSSAI specifies the maximum daily consumption limits for certain substances in caffeinated drinks:
- Taurine: Limited up to 2000 mg per day
- D-glucuronic-Y-lactone: Limited up to 1200 mg per day
- Inositol: Limited up to 100 mg per day
- Pantothenic acid: Limited up to 10 mg per day
Clear Labelling Requirements
The amount of caffeine per pack or serving must be clearly labelled. Additionally, a warning stating, "Not suggested for youngsters, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, or any individuals allergic to caffeine," must be prominently displayed in the food product’s warnings section.
Blue Tint Criteria for Carbonated Bottles
As per the FSSAI standards for soft and energy drinks, for carbonated bottles with a capacity of 5 litres or more, the addition of Blue Tint must meet specific criteria:
- The Blue tint used in polycarbonate and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic bottles must comply with Indian standard IS 9833.
- According to IS: 9845, the quantity of pigment/colour in the blue tint shall not exceed 60 mg/litre.
Conclusion
The FSSAI standards for soft and energy drinks play a vital role in ensuring the safety, quality, and transparency of these beverages in the Indian market. The mandatory FSSAI registration not only legalises the production and sale but also instils consumer confidence by guaranteeing adherence to stringent food safety norms. By setting guidelines for ingredient standardisation, accurate labelling, and comprehensive product information, FSSAI promotes industry-wide consistency and enables consumers to make informed choices. Moreover, these FSSAI standards for soft and energy drinks foster market competitiveness, facilitate international trade, and establish a foundation for continuous improvement, reinforcing the commitment to consumer welfare and public health.
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