FSSAI announces draft amendment to tighten infant formula rules: What are the proposed changes? | Today’s news
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a draft amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Food for Infant Nutrition) Regulations, 2020, which proposes a ban on the addition of sucrose and fructose in food products intended for infants under six months of age.
The draft Food Safety and Standards (Food for Infant Nutrition) Regulations 2026, published on Friday, aims to further strengthen the nutritional requirements of infant formula products by limiting added sugars during the first months of a baby’s life, reports ANI.
What changes are proposed?
Currently, polymers of lactose and glucose are recommended as the primary sources of carbohydrates in infant formula products. However, existing rules allow manufacturers to use sucrose and/or fructose as carbohydrate sources if necessary, provided they adhere to specified limits.
The proposed amendment seeks to remove this allowance for products manufactured for infants under six months of age.
The draft provision states that “sucrose and fructose may not be added to products intended for infants under 6 months of age”.
If introduced, this provision would prevent manufacturers from adding any of these sugars to infant formula products intended for children in this age group.
Why is FSSAI proposing the change?
The FSSAI emphasized that the first six months of a child’s life is a crucial stage of growth and development during which adequate and appropriate nutrition plays a vital role.
The proposed measure aims to ensure that products intended for young infants meet their nutritional requirements without the addition of sucrose and fructose where this is not necessary.
The move also supports broader public health initiatives aimed at reducing the risks associated with early exposure to added sugars, including dietary factors contributing to childhood obesity and other related health problems.
How does the proposal align with breastfeeding recommendations?
The proposed restrictions are consistent with established public health guidelines that recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months after birth.
Through stricter nutritional requirements for infant formula products, the regulator aims to promote formulations that meet the specific dietary needs of early-stage infants.
Current regulations set out detailed requirements for nutritional composition, quality and safety across different categories of infant formula products intended for children from birth to 24 months.
what’s next
FSSAI has released the draft amendment to seek feedback from stakeholders. Objections and motions may be filed within 60 days of the date on which copies of the Official Gazette containing the notice are made available to the public.
The food regulator will assess the submissions received within the specified period before submitting the amendment for finalization.
The proposed changes reflect FSSAI’s efforts to promote science-based food safety regulations and promote responsible manufacturing practices, placing greater emphasis on protecting children’s nutritional health from childhood.
(With agency input)
