FSSAI Proposes Ban on Added Sugar in Baby Food for Infants Up to Six Months

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has published a draft amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Regulations, 2020. The proposal is part of efforts to ensure that infant nutrition products meet the specific dietary needs of babies during their early months.

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the first six months of life are crucial for healthy growth and development, making appropriate nutrition particularly important.

What Has FSSAI Proposed?

Under the proposed Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Amendment Regulations, 2026, manufacturers would not be allowed to add sucrose or fructose to food products intended for infants up to six months of age.

Currently, the regulations permit sucrose and fructose to be added when required as carbohydrate sources, subject to prescribed limits. Lactose and glucose polymers are the preferred carbohydrate sources under the existing rules.

The proposed amendment seeks to introduce a specific restriction on sucrose and fructose for this age group. However, the proposal is still in the draft stage and has not yet been finalised.

Why Is Limiting Added Sugar Important for Babies?

Early infancy is a critical period for growth and development. Providing appropriate nutrition during this stage helps meet babies’ nutritional requirements without unnecessary ingredients.

The proposed restriction also supports wider public health efforts to address concerns about early exposure to added sugars, including dietary risk factors associated with childhood obesity and related health problems.

By strengthening regulations, FSSAI aims to encourage manufacturers to formulate infant nutrition products according to the nutritional needs of young babies rather than adding sugars unnecessarily.

Also Read: Starting Non-Veg for Infants? Chicken or Mutton—Which Is Better for Your Baby’s Growth?

Breastfeeding Remains Important During the First Six Months

The proposal complements public health recommendations that encourage exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life.

Breast milk provides the nutrients babies need during this period. When breastfeeding is not possible or is insufficient, parents should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional about suitable infant feeding options.

Parents should not add sugar, honey, or other sweeteners to an infant’s feeds. They should also avoid changing the preparation or concentration of infant formula, as this can affect its nutritional balance and safety.

The proposed restriction concerns the addition of sucrose and fructose to regulated infant nutrition products. It should not be interpreted as a ban on all carbohydrates, which are important components of infant nutrition.

What Happens Next?

The draft amendment has been published for public consultation, allowing stakeholders to submit objections and suggestions within 60 days of the relevant Gazette copies being made available.

FSSAI will consider the representations received before finalising the amendment.
If implemented, the proposed restriction would strengthen safeguards against added sugars in food products intended for infants up to six months of age. It also highlights the importance of age-appropriate nutrition and responsible product formulation during the earliest stages of life.