FSSAI Proposes Ban On Added Sucrose; Fructose In Foods For Infants Under Six Months

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed prohibiting the addition of sucrose and fructose to food products intended for infants up to six months of age.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced the proposal on Saturday. The draft Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Amendment Regulations, 2026, aim to strengthen nutritional safeguards for young infants.

FSSAI published the draft in the Gazette of India on October 16, 2026. It has invited stakeholders to submit objections and suggestions within 60 days. The authority will review the submissions before finalising the amendment.

Existing regulations prescribe nutritional composition, quality and safety standards for infant nutrition products for children from birth to 24 months.

They identify lactose and glucose polymers as preferred carbohydrate sources. Manufacturers may currently add sucrose or fructose when needed, subject to prescribed limits.

The proposed amendment seeks to prohibit these added sugars in products intended for infants up to six months. It aims to ensure that infant nutrition products meet the specific dietary needs of this age group and limit early exposure to added sugars.

The ministry highlighted the first six months of life as a critical period for healthy growth and development. Appropriate nutrition during this stage remains essential.

The proposal also supports broader public health efforts to address dietary risk factors associated with childhood obesity and related health concerns.

The initiative aligns with established public health recommendations that promote exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life.

The proposed rules would encourage manufacturers to prioritise infants’ nutritional requirements when formulating products.

Also Read: AYUSH Innovation Surges: Patent Filings Rise 836.5% To 590 In FY26