FSSAI Moves to Ban Added Sugars in Infant Food
FSSAI proposes a draft amendment to ban sucrose and fructose in food for infants up to six months to combat childhood obesity and health risks.
In a major push to safeguard the health of the youngest citizens, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced a draft amendment to the infant nutrition regulations. The proposed changes aim to strictly prohibit the addition of sucrose and fructose in food products designed for infants up to six months of age.
Strengthening Nutritional Safeguards
The draft Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Amendment Regulations, 2026, are designed to refine the existing 2020 framework. The primary goal is to ensure that nutrition products for infants are formulated strictly according to age-appropriate needs, specifically by reducing exposure to added sugars during the most critical early stages of life.
Currently, the regulations cover nutritional composition, safety, and quality for children from birth up to 24 months. While lactose and glucose polymers are the preferred carbohydrate sources under current rules, sucrose and fructose are permitted if required as a carbohydrate source, provided they stay within prescribed limits.
The Proposed Shift
The new draft amendment seeks to remove this flexibility for the youngest infants. The proposed provision explicitly states: "sucrose and fructose shall not be added in the products intended for infants up to the age of 6 months."
Why This Move Matters
The first six months of a child's life are a pivotal window for growth and development. FSSAI's move is rooted in several public health priorities:
- Preventing Childhood Obesity: By limiting added sugars, the authority aims to mitigate dietary risk factors that lead to early-onset obesity and related health complications.
- Promoting Breastfeeding: This initiative aligns with global public health recommendations that advocate for exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life.
- Science-Based Standards: The move reflects a shift toward preventive nutrition and responsible product formulation by manufacturers.
What Happens Next?
The FSSAI has not yet finalized these rules. The draft notification has been released for public consultation, allowing stakeholders to voice their opinions. Objections and suggestions are invited within 60 days from the date the notification was made available in the Official Gazette.
Once the consultation period ends, the FSSAI will review the representations received before finalizing the amendment to the regulations.