Odisha Cracks Down on Mislabelled ORS Products; 7.92 Lakh Units Recalled

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Health Department has launched a statewide crackdown to trace and withdraw deceptively labelled ORS packs being sold in the market. The special enforcement drive, initiated by the Drugs Control Directorate nearly two weeks ago, targets beverages falsely marketed as ORS or electrolyte solutions.

Officials have so far recalled nearly 7.92 lakh units of these mislabelled products from drug stores across the state, with the seized stock valued at around ₹4 crore.

An official from the Drugs Control Directorate said that genuine Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) must adhere to World Health Organisation (WHO) standards and be manufactured solely by licensed pharmaceutical companies. These formulations are typically sold only at recognised medical outlets.

“Some liquid packs approved under FSSAI are being misleadingly labelled as ORS or electrolyte solutions. These do not meet clinical requirements and are ineffective for treating dehydration,” the official clarified.

The Health Department has warned that the crackdown will continue, with strict action against violators. Drug sellers and retailers have been directed not to stock or sell such misleading products.