FSSAI clarifies: Herbal and plant-based infusions cannot be called tea

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has reiterated that herbal or plant-based infusions cannot be marketed or labelled as “tea,” emphasizing compliance with food safety and labelling regulations. According to FSSAI, the term “tea” refers exclusively to products made from the leaves, buds, or tender stems of the Camellia sinensis plant. Beverages made from herbs, flowers, roots, or spices—such as chamomile, hibiscus, tulsi, moringa, or lemongrass—do not fall under this category.

With the rise of wellness beverages, FSSAI has observed misleading use of terms like “herbal tea” or “plant tea.” Food businesses are directed to label such products accurately as “herbal infusions,” “plant infusions,” or “herbal beverages” and ensure marketing claims reflect their true composition. The move aims to safeguard consumers and standardize labelling in the growing wellness beverage market.

28-12-2025