FDA Issues Notice to Sting, Red Bull, PepsiCo

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has initiated action against several leading beverage companies, including Sting, Red Bull, and PepsiCo, over the use of the term “Energy Drink” on their products. The issue was raised in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, while FDA Secretary Tukaram Mundhe confirmed that notices have already been issued to around 10 to 12 companies.

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The matter came up after legislators questioned the health impact of energy drinks, particularly among students and young consumers. Responding in the Assembly, Minister Narhari Zirwal said the government had already directed officials in October 2024 and January 2025 to inspect establishments selling such beverages within 500 metres of educational institutions, collect samples, and take action against objectionable advertisements.

‘Energy Drink’ Label Not Permitted Under Law

Addressing a press conference, FDA Secretary Tukaram Mundhe said that companies marketing so-called energy drinks cannot legally use the term “Energy Drink” because no such category exists under Annexure A of the Food Safety and Standards regulations.

He confirmed that the FDA issued notices on June 30 to nearly a dozen companies, including PepsiCo, Red Bull, and Sting, directing them to stop using the term on their products.

According to Mundhe, the department has issued clear orders stating that manufacturers cannot label beverages as “Energy Drink” by relying on existing provisions or Schedule IV, and such branding will no longer be permitted.

Fresh Guidelines Near Schools Coming Soon

Mundhe also announced that the FDA is preparing detailed guidelines specifying which products can and cannot be sold within a 500-metre radius of schools. The order is expected to be issued in the coming days as part of the state’s ongoing Save Drug, Save Food campaign.

Question Raised Over Child’s Death

During the Assembly session, MLA Vikram Pachpute raised concerns over reports claiming that excessive consumption of Sting allegedly led to the death of a child in Shrigonda-Pathardi, Ahilyanagar, after increased heart rate.

However, Minister Narhari Zirwal clarified that the government has not found any confirmed evidence linking the reported death directly to Sting consumption.

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