The benchmark for what qualifies as 'tea' has been tightened by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), which has clarified that only the infusions derived from Camellia sinensis can be termed as 'tea'.
Further, the statutory body has issued a stern warning to food business operators against using the word 'tea' for herbal infusions and plant-based blends not derived from Camellia sinensis, terming it a case of misbranding and misleading practices under the law.
The directive, issued on December 24, comes after the regulator found several food business operators (FBOs) marketing products, such as 'Rooibos tea', 'herbal tea' and 'flower tea', none of which are obtained from the Camellia sinensis plant.
According to FSSAI regulations, the term 'tea' can only be used on packaging and labelling if the beverage is derived from Camellia sinensis.
This includes variants such as Kangra tea, green tea and instant tea.
"Such plant-based or herbal infusions or blends, which are not derived from Camellia sinensis, do not qualify to be named as tea," the FSSAI clarified. The violation, it said, amounts to misleading and misbranding under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The regulator has directed all FBOs, including those engaged in e-commerce, manufacturing, packing, marketing, import or sale of such products, to comply with food safety regulations.
"All FBOs are directed to refrain from using the term 'tea' directly or indirectly for any products not derived from Camellia sinensis," it said.
FSSAI has also asked state officials to ensure strict adherence to these provisions by FBOs, including online retailers.
(With inputs from PTI)
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