India tightens rules on misleading sugary ORS drinks — Dr Sivaranjani Santosh considers it as a major win
What Is ORS and Why It Matters
ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) is a simple yet powerful mix of water, salts, and sugar that prevents dehydration caused by diarrhoea or vomiting. It helps restore the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance quickly and safely.
Unfortunately, several beverage companies began selling sugary drinks under the “ORS” label. These products, though sweet and appealing, contained excessive sugar and lacked the proper salt–glucose ratio. Instead of helping with dehydration, they sometimes worsened it, especially in children.
Dr Sivaranjani Santosh’s Role in the Movement
Paediatrician Dr Sivaranjani Santosh has been vocal about the misuse of the term “ORS.” She warned that parents often mistook high-sugar drinks for medical-grade ORS, leading to poor recovery and even hospital visits.
Her continuous advocacy, supported by other health experts, prompted the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to intervene. The authority has now banned the use of the term on any drink that doesn’t meet WHO-recommended standards. This marks a major public health victory and brings clarity to consumers.
Fact Box:
Oral Rehydration Solution was invented by Dr Dilip Mahalanabis in 1971 during a severe cholera outbreak in West Bengal. This innovation went on to save millions of lives worldwide and is recognized as one of the greatest medical breakthroughs of the 20th century.
Why the Ban Was Needed
True Oral Rehydration Solution is carefully balanced — each litre should contain about 13.5 g sugar and 2.6 g salt. Some commercial beverages contained up to 10 times more sugar, creating an unhealthy imbalance.
According to doctors, such sugary drinks can:
- Worsen dehydration in diarrhoeal patients
- Cause electrolyte imbalances
- Mislead consumers, especially parents of small children
How to Prepare ORS the Right Way
Ingredients:
- 1 litre clean water
- 6 level teaspoons sugar (about 30 g)
- ½ teaspoon salt (about 2.5 g)
Mix thoroughly until dissolved. Offer small sips frequently, especially during loose motions. Avoid adding lemon, glucose powder, or juices — they disturb the salt–sugar balance.
What Happens Next
The Health Ministry has directed companies to withdraw sugary products and correct their packaging. However, to minimize financial losses, the government has allowed a limited period to clear existing stocks before stricter enforcement begins.
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The Takeaway
The ban on misleading drinks reinforces India’s commitment to safe healthcare and transparency. Thanks to experts like Dr Sivaranjani Santosh, awareness around proper rehydration methods is growing. As India moves toward stronger health standards, this step ensures that ORS remains what it was always meant to be — a lifesaving medical solution, not a sugary beverage.
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