FSSAI accuses PepsiCo of misleading consumers with unregulated energy drink claims

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has told the Delhi High Court that PepsiCo is engaging in deceptive marketing practices by labeling its Sting and Adrenaline Rush products as energy drinks, even though no prescribed standards exist for this beverage category under Indian regulations.

In its court submission, the FSSAI contended that the absence of defined standards for energy drinks allows manufacturers to make unsubstantiated claims about their products' composition and benefits, potentially misleading consumers about nutritional and functional attributes. The regulator expressed concern that such marketing practices create a false impression of product efficacy and safety.

The case underscores ongoing regulatory challenges in India's beverage industry, where the classification and labeling of functional drinks remain contentious issues. Energy drink products typically contain high levels of caffeine and other stimulants, raising health concerns particularly among younger consumers.

PepsiCo's Sting and Adrenaline Rush are positioned as performance-enhancing beverages in the Indian market. The FSSAI's intervention signals increased scrutiny of beverage marketing claims and suggests the regulator may be moving toward establishing clearer definitions and standards for the energy drink category to protect consumer interests and ensure transparent labeling practices.