Red Bull wins India court reprieve to use 'energy drink' label
PEP•An Indian court overturned a regulator’s order barring Red Bull from using the “energy drink” label, ruling that the company had not been given a chance to present its views. A government official said the regulator plans to appeal on public health grounds.
1. Court overturns order
The Delhi High Court set aside the food regulator’s June order barring makers of high-caffeine drinks from using the “energy drink” description. It said the regulator had acted without giving Red Bull an opportunity to provide its views.
2. Appeal planned
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India plans to appeal on public health grounds, a government official said. Pepsi, Monster Beverage and Reliance had privately criticized the move, fearing the label’s removal could damage their brands; none of the companies took legal action. The Indian market is expected to be worth $1.6 billion by 2028.
