PepsiCo India has begun removing the word “Energy” from the packaging of its popular beverage Sting as the company moves to comply with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)’s revised labelling requirements.
The move comes after FSSAI directed beverage manufacturers to discontinue the use of the term “energy drink” on product labels, stating that there are currently no prescribed Indian food standards recognizing “energy drinks” as a separate product category. Companies have been given 90 days from July 1, 2026, to comply with the updated regulations.
Sting Packaging Gets a New Look
According to industry reports, PepsiCo has already started manufacturing Sting cans and bottles without the word “Energy” on the label. The updated packaging will gradually replace existing stock in the market once current inventory is exhausted.
A PepsiCo India spokesperson confirmed that the company is taking the necessary steps to ensure full compliance with all applicable FSSAI regulations.
Advertising Campaigns Also Being Revised
The regulatory changes are not limited to product packaging. PepsiCo is also updating its marketing and promotional campaigns related to Sting.
Previously, Sting packaging featured the claim “Official Energy Drink of Formula One.” With the removal of the “energy” classification, promotional materials associated with the Formula One partnership are also being revised to align with FSSAI’s requirements.
Why Did FSSAI Take This Step
FSSAI recently clarified that “energy drink” is no longer a recognized product category under Indian food regulations. The regulator stated that:
- There are currently no specific Indian standards defining energy drinks.
- The use of terms such as “energy drink” may mislead consumers regarding the nature and benefits of the product.
- Manufacturers must remove such claims from labels and advertising within the prescribed compliance period.
The regulator has been increasing scrutiny of product claims across the food and beverage industry to improve transparency and prevent misleading marketing practices.
Other Beverage Companies Also Affected
PepsiCo is not the only company impacted by the revised regulations. Several leading brands in the high-caffeine beverage segment, including Red Bull, Monster, Reliance Consumer Products, and Hell Energy, have reportedly requested additional time to comply with the updated labelling requirements.
Growing Focus on Food Labelling Compliance
The latest action reflects FSSAI’s broader effort to strengthen food labelling and advertising compliance in India. In recent months, the regulator has issued multiple notices and taken enforcement actions against companies over misleading claims, improper labelling, and packaging practices across various food categories.
As the compliance deadline approaches, beverage manufacturers are expected to update both product packaging and marketing materials to meet the revised regulatory requirements.
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