FSSAI Moves to Strengthen Infant Nutrition Standards by Restricting Addition of Sucrose and Fructose in Products for Infants Up to Six Months

Key Highlights:

• The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed restricting the addition of sucrose and fructose in infant food products.
• The restriction specifically targets products intended for infants up to six months of age.
• This is a draft amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Regulations, 2020.
• The proposal aims to minimize early exposure to added sugars and address concerns like childhood obesity.

Detailed Insights:

• The draft amendment was published on October 16, 2026, and is open for public consultation for 60 days.
• Existing regulations permit sucrose and fructose as carbohydrate sources within prescribed limits, but the amendment proposes a complete prohibition for this age group.
• The measure supports established public health recommendations promoting exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life.
• It reflects FSSAI's commitment to science-based food standards and safeguarding the nutritional well-being of children.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI): A statutory body under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare responsible for food safety and standards in India.
• Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Regulations, 2020: Regulations that govern the composition, quality, and safety standards for infant nutrition products in India.
• Sucrose and Fructose: Types of simple sugars, often added to food products as sweeteners.