FSSAI Sets the Record Straight: Only Camellia Sinensis Drinks Can Be Called ‘Tea’
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has clarified that only beverages made from the Camellia sinensis plant can legally be sold as “tea” in India. The move aims to curb misleading labels in the booming herbal and wellness drinks market.
In a statement on December 24, 2025, FSSAI noted that products like herbal tea, flower tea, and rooibos tea are being marketed as “tea” despite not being made from the tea plant. “It has come to the notice of FSSAI that some Food Business Operators are marketing products not obtained from Camellia sinensis under the name ‘Tea’,” the authority said.
What the Law Says
Tea — including Green Tea, Kangra Tea, and Instant Tea in solid form — must come exclusively from Camellia sinensis. Under the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020, packaging must clearly indicate the true nature of the product.
Using “tea” for other herbal or plant-based drinks is misleading and amounts to misbranding, violating the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Such products should be labelled as proprietary foods or regulated under non-specified food regulations, depending on their composition.
Compliance Measures
The clarification applies to all manufacturers, importers, sellers, and e-commerce platforms, which have been instructed to comply with the rules. State and union territory food safety officials will monitor the market, and action will be taken against violators.
FSSAI’s directive sends a clear message to the industry and consumers alike: if it’s not from the tea plant, it’s not tea.
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