On 26 August 2024, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) officially withdrew its earlier order dated 21 August 2024 concerning A1 and A2 protein claims on milk and milk products. The withdrawal was issued to allow further consultation and stakeholder engagement before any final regulatory position is taken.
Background of the Order
- On 21 August 2024, FSSAI directed Food Business Operators (FBOs) to remove all claims related to A1 and A2 protein from milk and dairy product labels and promotional materials.
- The directive applied to packaged milk, milk products, and related marketing communications.
- FBOs were instructed to discontinue the use of such claims pending regulatory clarity.
Withdrawal Announcement – 26 August 2024
- FSSAI withdrew the 21 August 2024 order within five days of its issuance.
- The withdrawal was made to facilitate further consultation with industry stakeholders and subject matter experts.
- The regulator indicated that additional discussions would be conducted before finalizing its stance on A1 and A2 protein labelling and claims.
What This Means for FBOs
- The earlier directive requiring removal of A1 and A2 protein claims is currently not in force.
- Food Business Operators should closely monitor further notifications from FSSAI.
- Any future regulatory decision may include revised guidelines on scientific substantiation, labeling compliance, and advertising standards.
Regulatory Context
- FSSAI regulates food labeling and claims under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
- Claims related to nutritional or compositional differences, such as A1 and A2 protein in milk, may require scientific validation and regulatory approval.
- Stakeholder consultations typically involve industry representatives, dairy associations, technical experts, and legal advisors.
Food businesses are advised to stay updated on official FSSAI notifications and ensure compliance with evolving labeling and claim regulations related to milk and milk products in India.
Download the notification here.