FSSAI has released draft amendments to the ‘Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Regulations, 2020’. It is proposed to ban the addition of sucrose and fructose in foods formulated for infants up to six months. According to ANI, the draft ‘Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Amendment Regulations, 2026’ released on Friday seeks to strengthen the nutritional standards of infant food by limiting the use of sugar in the early months of a child’s life. Let us try to understand it in detail.

What changes are being proposed?

Currently, lactose and glucose polymers are recommended as the main carbohydrate sources in baby food. However, under current regulations, manufacturers are permitted to use sucrose and/or fructose as a carbohydrate source if necessary, provided they adhere to prescribed limits. The proposed amendment calls for removing this exemption from products made for infants up to six months of age. The draft states that sucrose and fructose should not be added to products intended for infants up to 6 months of age. If this is implemented, manufacturers will not be able to add any of these sugars to baby food made for babies this age.

Why is FSSAI proposing this change?

FSSAI has said that the first six months of a child’s life are very important for its development and growth. During this period, proper and adequate nutrition plays a very important role. The purpose of this proposal is to ensure that products designed for young infants meet their nutritional needs without adding sucrose and fructose (which are not needed). The move also supports a broader public health initiative aimed at reducing the risks of early childhood exposure to excess sugar. These include dietary factors that promote childhood obesity and other related health problems.

How does this proposal fit with breastfeeding recommendations?

These proposed restrictions are consistent with established public health guidelines that recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months after birth. By imposing strict nutritional rules for baby food, the regulator aims to promote products that meet the specific nutritional needs of babies in their early months. The existing regulations lay down detailed requirements regarding nutritional composition, quality and safety of different types of baby food intended for babies from birth to 24 months.

What will happen next?

FSSAI has made public the draft of these proposed amendments, so that views can be sought from stakeholders. Objections and suggestions can be sent within 60 days from the date of publication in the Official Gazette (containing this notification). Before finalizing the amendment, the Food Regulatory Authority (FSSAI) will review the suggestions and objections received within the stipulated time. These proposed changes reflect FSSAI’s efforts to advance science-based food safety regulations and promote responsible manufacturing practices. Also special emphasis has been laid on protecting the nutrition and health of children from their early life.