New Delhi, Dec. 26 -- India's apex food regulator has tightened labelling norms for beverages sold as "tea", ruling that only products made from Camellia sinensis can legally use the term.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has, through a directive issued on 24 December, instructed food companies and e-commerce platforms to discontinue the marketing of plant-based infusions-including herbal, flower and rooibos blends-as tea, citing misleading labelling and misbranding.

The move is aimed at ensuring labels reflect the true nature of food products and preventing consumer confusion. Mint explains why the rule is being enforced now, who it affects, and what changes brands must make.

The FSSAI has clarified that under ...