The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed a new restriction on added sugars in infant food. A draft amendment would prohibit adding sucrose and fructose to food products meant for infants up to six months of age.
What is the FSSAI draft amendment?
The draft is titled the Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Amendment Regulations, 2026. It was published in the Gazette of India on 16 October 2026 and seeks to amend the Foods for Infant Nutrition Regulations, 2020.
It adds a proviso stating that sucrose and fructose shall not be added to products intended for infants up to 6 months old.
What do the current rules say?
The 2020 regulations set composition, quality and safety standards for infant nutrition products for children from birth to 24 months. Lactose and glucose polymers are the preferred carbohydrate sources. Sucrose and/or fructose can currently be added only when needed as a carbohydrate source, within prescribed limits.
Why is FSSAI proposing this?
According to the Press Information Bureau (PIB), the first six months are a critical period for growth and development. The proposal aims to limit early exposure to added sugars, which are linked to risk factors such as childhood obesity. The government also says the move supports the recommendation of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months.
Is the ban final?
No. This is a draft, not a final rule. FSSAI will consider the draft after 60 days from the date the Gazette copies are made available to the public. It will take into account objections and suggestions received in that period before finalising the amendment.
How to send comments to FSSAI
Anyone affected can send objections or suggestions in either of these ways:
- By post: The Chief Executive Officer, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, FDA Bhawan, Kotla Road, New Delhi – 110002
- By email: regulation@fssai.gov.in
Key points at a glance
- Authority: FSSAI
- Draft: Foods for Infant Nutrition Amendment Regulations, 2026
- Proposal: No added sucrose or fructose in products for infants up to 6 months
- Status: Draft, open for public comments
- Comment window: 60 days from when the Gazette copies are made available to the public
Frequently asked questions
Does this ban sugar in all baby food?
No. The proposal covers products for infants up to six months only, and it is not yet final.
Who can send comments?
Any person likely to be affected, including parents, manufacturers and health experts.
When will the rule come into effect?
That isn’t stated. FSSAI will decide after reviewing the comments received.
Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, release dated 17 October 2026; FSSAI draft notification published in the Gazette of India.