For many things that come in colorful packaging, ORS or the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended Oral Rehydration Salt is one of them. While colorful packaging may seem interesting and often enticing, they may be harmful for you, as these may not be original ORS and could do you more harm than to benefit you. What Is ORS?It is an adequate glucose-electrolyte solution called the Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) solution. It was first used in 1969, and then a new solution has been recommended by the WHO and the UNICEF since 2003. This use of ORS formulation, as WHO mentions has improved effectiveness from as compared to the old solution. How To Identify The Original ORS?There are 3 easy steps to identify the original ORS.1. Look For The WHO MarkThe original ORS packaging will always have "WHO Recommended Formula" written on it. This is because the ORS contains a specific formula which is based on the WHO formulation. Avoid ORS which has any other mark on it. 2. Check For The Right SolutionOriginal ORS will contain glucose, potassium, and sodium. It has a specific ratio too, and contains sodium, potassium, chloride, citrate, and dextrose. This specific solution helps body with dehydration to enhance sodium absorption.Whereas in fake ORS, the sugar content is higher than usual, while the sodium content is lower. This can worsen dehydration and cause an imbalance. This could also lead to brain swelling, and further worse diarrhea. 3. Read The Label Carefully While original ORS will have "WHO Recommended Formula" written on it, fake ORS may contain "FSSAI" mark. While the FSSAI mark or the logo signifies that the product has been certified by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, which ensures that the food product meets the safety standard set by FSSAI. It categorizes the product under "food". Whereas, ORS is a medication. If your ORS is marked with "FSSAI" stamp, it means that it is not recommended by WHO. Often, such ORS packaging also mentions that it is "Ready to Serve Fruit Beverage", or something like this: "This is only a trademark and does not represent its true nature. Not a WHO Oral Rehydration Salts." Do make sure that you read the labels carefully. Why Is It Important?As India is under intense heatwaves, dehydration is one of the most common health impacts that many are facing. As a result, many are also witnessing loss of excessive water, electrolytes, and diarrhea. For such conditions, ORS becomes the go-to solution. In India, diarrhea is the third-leading cause of child mortality. To prevent that, it is important that one must observe the steps to ensure that original ORS is being used. Another step that people must avoid is making homemade ORS. This can further disrupt the balance, and could lead to severe health risks, and worsens health conditions. It several cases, it may lead to death too. When you choose a WHO-approved ORS, you ensure that it maintains overall health and ensures a quick recovery, with adequate solution in its ratio. A safe ORS could also be beneficial for the vulnerable population, including children.