FSSAI proposes ban on added sucrose and fructose in foods for infants under six months

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The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed to ban the addition of sucrose and fructose in food products intended for infants below six months of age.

The Foods for Infant Nutrition Change Regulations, 2026, published in the Gazette of India on Friday (October 16, 2026), proposes to amend existing regulations governing the nutritional composition, quality and safety of infant formula products.

The proposed change states that “sucrose and fructose may not be added to products intended for infants under 6 months of age”.

Under the existing Food Safety and Standards (Food for Infant Nutrition) Regulations 2020, polymers of lactose and glucose are the preferred sources of carbohydrates in infant formula products. Sucrose and/or fructose may be added if desired as a carbohydrate source, subject to prescribed limits.

The proposed amendment seeks to introduce a specific restriction on their addition to products intended for infants in the first six months of life.

Critical period

“The first six months are a critical period for the growth and development of infants, so appropriate nutrition is particularly important. The proposed restriction aims to ensure that products intended for this age group meet their nutritional requirements without the addition of sucrose and fructose,” the government said in a report released on Saturday (October 16).

She added that early exposure to added sugars is a public health concern because of its potential implications for the development of food preferences and long-term eating habits. Unhealthy eating habits are among the risk factors associated with childhood obesity and related health problems.

“The proposal also complements public health recommendations advocating exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding during this period, followed by the introduction of nutritionally adequate complementary foods along with continued breastfeeding,” the report said.

For public consultation

The notice was issued for public consultation. Interested parties were invited to submit objections and suggestions within 60 days from the date on which copies of the Official Gazette containing the notification are made available to the public.

FSSAI will consider the representations received within the specified period before finalizing the change. The proposed restriction will become part of the regulatory framework only after the amendment is finalized and announced.

Published – 17 Oct 2026 18:22 IST