FSSAI clarifies what can be labelled as “Tea”, warns against misleading beverage claims

India’s food regulator has clarified that only beverages derived from Camellia sinensis can legally be labelled and marketed as “Tea”. Products made from herbs, flowers, fruits, or other plant sources must not use the term “tea” on labels, branding, or marketing communication. The clarification comes amid rising scrutiny of misleading beverage claims and follows enforcement actions under the Food Safety and Standards Act to curb consumer deception.

Relevance for Symega:
This clarification raises regulatory risk for flavoured, herbal, and functional beverage brands that use tea-associated cues without true tea content. For Symega, it underscores the need to guide customers on label-compliant flavour positioning, alternative naming conventions (infusions, herbal drinks, botanicals), and formulation strategies that deliver tea-like sensory experiences without triggering non-compliance. It also opens opportunities to support reformulation and sensory-led differentiation as brands adapt to tighter FSSAI enforcement.

Source: Times of India

Govt backs annatto as a natural colourant for dairy applications

The Government of India has highlighted annatto as a preferred natural colourant for dairy products, reinforcing its safety, regulatory acceptance, and suitability as an alternative to synthetic colours. The move aligns with India’s broader push toward clean-label foods and increased use of plant-based, consumer-friendly ingredients in staples such as milk, butter, cheese, and flavoured dairy products.

Relevance for Symega:
This government endorsement strengthens the case for natural colour adoption in dairy, accelerating brand shifts away from synthetic dyes. It also signals rising demand for label-friendly reformulation support as dairy brands proactively align with regulatory and consumer expectations.Symega is already using imported Annatto in custard powder and other cheese applications.

Source: Press Information Bureau