Health Alert: Here’s How You Can Identify Fake ORS
Counterfeit goods are rampant in today's markets, and even essential products like oral-rehydration salts (ORS) aren't immune, according to content creator Revant Himatsingka, known as Food Pharmer. Himatsingka emphasizes the importance of discerning genuine ORS, crucial for combating dehydration and restoring electrolyte balance , especially during the summer months.
“Most of the ORS in the Indian pharmacies are fake! These companies trademark the word ‘ORS’, but they are not an ORS! Fake ORS has high sugar and dangerously low sodium . Consuming fake ORS has resulted in many kids being admitted to the ICU because of brain swelling,” Himatsingka revealed.
He went on to explain that while counterfeit ORS might boast FSSAI certification , as it falls under the food category, authentic ORS products will bear the label 'Based on WHO formula,' indicating their classification as drugs.
Why is counterfeit ORS a cause for concern?
Counterfeit ORS, laden with sugar, exacerbates diarrhea and dehydration. "Excessive sugar draws water into the intestines, exacerbating fluid loss. Moreover, counterfeit ORS with insufficient sodium disrupts the body's electrolyte balance, potentially leading to severe complications like brain swelling," warned Dr. Tandekar. He cautioned that the consumption of counterfeit ORS poses significant health risks, particularly to children, often resulting in ICU admissions due to brain swelling.
“The imbalanced composition of fake ORS severely affects the body’s fluid regulation and electrolyte balance, putting people at risk,” remarked Dr. Tandekar.
Dr. Tandekar affirmed that ORS is typically categorized as medication rather than a food item. Genuine ORS formulations adhere to stringent guidelines to ensure consistent quality.
“Always look for proper packaging with clear instructions, correct ingredient information, and regulatory markings. Real ORS products will have appropriate labels indicating their quality standards, Dr Tandekar concluded.
“Most of the ORS in the Indian pharmacies are fake! These companies trademark the word ‘ORS’, but they are not an ORS! Fake ORS has high sugar and dangerously low sodium . Consuming fake ORS has resulted in many kids being admitted to the ICU because of brain swelling,” Himatsingka revealed.
He went on to explain that while counterfeit ORS might boast FSSAI certification , as it falls under the food category, authentic ORS products will bear the label 'Based on WHO formula,' indicating their classification as drugs.
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Why is counterfeit ORS a cause for concern?
Counterfeit ORS, laden with sugar, exacerbates diarrhea and dehydration. "Excessive sugar draws water into the intestines, exacerbating fluid loss. Moreover, counterfeit ORS with insufficient sodium disrupts the body's electrolyte balance, potentially leading to severe complications like brain swelling," warned Dr. Tandekar. He cautioned that the consumption of counterfeit ORS poses significant health risks, particularly to children, often resulting in ICU admissions due to brain swelling.
“The imbalanced composition of fake ORS severely affects the body’s fluid regulation and electrolyte balance, putting people at risk,” remarked Dr. Tandekar.
Dr. Tandekar affirmed that ORS is typically categorized as medication rather than a food item. Genuine ORS formulations adhere to stringent guidelines to ensure consistent quality.
“Always look for proper packaging with clear instructions, correct ingredient information, and regulatory markings. Real ORS products will have appropriate labels indicating their quality standards, Dr Tandekar concluded.





