Government Proposes Ban on Added Sugar in Baby Food Products for Infants Up to Six Months

New Delhi: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed a significant change in infant nutrition regulations, seeking to prohibit the addition of sucrose and fructose to food products intended for babies up to six months of age.

The initiative aims to ensure age-appropriate nutrition during the early months of life and prevent unnecessary consumption of added sugars, supporting healthier growth and development among infants.

Draft Amendment to Infant Nutrition Regulations Issued

The FSSAI, operating under the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has issued a draft amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Food for Infant Nutrition) Regulations, 2020.

The draft was published in the Gazette of India on October 16. Under the proposed amendment, sucrose and fructose would not be permitted in food products specifically intended for infants up to six months of age.

The proposal seeks to strengthen existing nutritional standards for infant food and introduce stricter requirements for products designed for this age group.

Why Are the First Six Months Crucial for Infant Nutrition?

The first six months of life are particularly important for an infant's physical growth and overall health. Appropriate nutrition during this period plays a vital role in development and can influence long-term health outcomes.

The proposed restrictions are intended to prevent the unnecessary addition of sugars to infant food products. They could also support broader public health efforts to reduce the risk of childhood obesity and other diet-related health problems.

Public health recommendations also emphasise exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life.

Existing Rules Set Nutritional Standards for Infant Food

The current regulations establish quality, safety and nutritional requirements for different categories of food products intended for children from birth to 24 months of age.

Under the existing framework, lactose and glucose polymers are preferred carbohydrate sources. However, sucrose and fructose may be added under certain circumstances, subject to prescribed limits.

The proposed amendment would make these provisions stricter for products intended for infants up to six months old by removing the existing allowance for these sugars in the specified category.

FSSAI Invites Public Feedback on Proposed Changes

The FSSAI has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders on the draft amendment. Responses may be submitted within 60 days from the date the Gazette notification becomes publicly available.

The authority will consider the feedback received before finalising the proposed changes.

The initiative represents a further step towards strengthening infant nutrition standards, with a focus on appropriate feeding practices and reducing unnecessary added sugars during the earliest stage of life.