Background
Infant nutrition plays a vital role in supporting healthy growth and development during the early stages of life. Ensuring the safety and nutritional quality of infant food products is an important responsibility for food manufacturers and regulatory authorities.
On 15 October 2026, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued a notification proposing an amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Regulations, 2020. The draft amendment proposes that sucrose and fructose shall not be added to products intended for infants up to six months of age.
The notification was published in the Gazette of India on 16 October 2026 and highlights the importance of appropriate ingredient selection and regulatory compliance in the infant nutrition industry.
Key Highlights of the Notification
- Regulatory framework: Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Regulations, 2020.
- Proposed amendment: Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Amendment Regulations, 2026.
- Regulation affected: Regulation 3, sub-regulation (6).
- Key provision: Sucrose and fructose shall not be added to products intended for infants up to six months of age.
- Consultation period: Objections or suggestions may be submitted within the specified 60-day period described in the notification.
What Should Infant Food Manufacturers Do?
Food business operators involved in infant nutrition can take the following preparatory steps:
- Review existing formulations: Identify products intended for infants up to six months of age.
- Check ingredient specifications: Verify whether sucrose or fructose is added directly or through formulation ingredients.
- Assess regulatory applicability: Determine which products fall within the scope of Regulation 3(6) and the proposed proviso.
- Coordinate with R&D and quality teams: Evaluate formulation requirements and document any necessary changes.
- Monitor regulatory updates: Follow official FSSAI publications for the final amendment and its effective date.
- Participate in consultation: Relevant stakeholders may submit evidence-based objections or suggestions within the specified period.
These measures can help manufacturers prepare for regulatory changes while maintaining appropriate product quality and safety standards.
Draft Regulation: An Important Distinction
It is important to note that the notification dated 15 October 2026 is a draft amendment, rather than confirmation that the proposed provision has already become a final enforceable requirement.
According to the notification, the draft regulations will be considered after the expiry of 60 days from the date the relevant Gazette copies are made available to the public. Objections or suggestions may be sent to the Chief Executive Officer, FSSAI, at FDA Bhawan, Kotla Road, New Delhi–110002, or by email to regulation@fssai.gov.in.
Conclusion
FSSAI’s proposed amendment to the Foods for Infant Nutrition Regulations, 2020, represents an important regulatory development for the infant nutrition sector. By proposing to prohibit the addition of sucrose and fructose to products intended for infants up to six months of age, the amendment emphasises the importance of age-appropriate formulation and careful ingredient selection.
For infant food manufacturers, regulatory professionals and quality assurance teams, staying informed about such developments is essential for effective compliance planning. Following the consultation process and reviewing subsequent official notifications will help stakeholders understand the final requirements and prepare accordingly.
Read the notification here