A shocking revelation recently came to light about popular children’s drinks. AIIMS doctor Priyanka Sehrawat recently warned in a viral Instagram video that a widely sold high-sugar beverage marketed under the name “OL” could be harming children.
AIIMS Doctor Reveals About High Sugar Drink Scam By eRZL
In the video, she said that while ORS (oral rehydration solution) follows the World Health Organisation’s formula to regulate children’s bowel movements, this drink contains ingredients that can actually cause diarrhoea.
Dr Shivaranjani Santosh fought an eight-year-long single-handed battle to protect children’s health, ensuring that companies cannot mislead parents with misleading branding. Finally, the company slightly changed the name, but the concern that misleading marketing can put children at serious risk remains.
The Controversy Behind eRZL And The High Sugar Drink Scam
The eRZL controversy centres on Hyderabad-based paediatrician Dr Shivaranjani Santosh and pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson (Kenvue). Following an October 2025 FSSAI order restricting the use of the term “ORS” to WHO-standard products, the drink previously called ORSL was rebranded as eRZL.
Dr Santosh claims the similar name and packaging continue to mislead parents into thinking eRZL is a medical rehydration solution, despite its high sugar content and additives like sucralose. In March 2026, the company sent her a legal notice accusing her of defamation for raising awareness, but she continues her campaign to protect children.
Medical experts warn that confusing eRZL with real ORS can be dangerous:
- Worsening Dehydration: Unlike WHO-standard ORS, eRZL can contain up to 10 times more sugar, which pulls water into the intestines and worsens diarrhoea.
- Artificial Sweetener Risks: Sucralose, used in eRZL, is not recommended for children under two and may cause bloating, vomiting, or long-term gut issues.
- Fatal Misuse: Parents may accidentally use these drinks for children with severe dehydration, leading to clinical emergencies.
How Parents Can Protect Their Kids
To avoid the risks of the high sugar drink scam, parents should follow these safety tips:
Check the Label: Genuine ORS must state that it follows the WHO-recommended formula.
Avoid “Electrolyte Drinks” for Diarrhoea: Products labelled as daily hydration or electrolyte beverages (like eRZL) are not medical treatments.
Seek Medical Advice: Always consult a doctor for dehydration treatment, especially in young children.