India’s food safety regulator has proposed banning the addition of certain sugars to baby food products intended for infants up to six months old, as part of efforts to improve child nutrition and protect infant health.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has published draft regulations seeking to prohibit the addition of sucrose and fructose to infant nutrition products.
The proposed amendment, published in the Gazette of India on October 16, aims to reduce unnecessary exposure to added sugars during the critical early stages of childhood development.
Under existing regulations, manufacturers are permitted to add limited quantities of sucrose and fructose when necessary as carbohydrate sources. However, the proposed changes would completely prohibit their addition to products intended for babies up to six months old.
India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said the move is intended to ensure that infant food products meet appropriate nutritional standards while addressing health concerns associated with early sugar consumption, including childhood obesity and related health risks.
The ministry said the initiative also supports public health recommendations encouraging exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life.
The draft regulations have been opened for public consultation, with stakeholders given 60 days to submit objections and suggestions.
The proposed ban will take effect only after the regulations are finalised and brought into force. (Newswire)