India: FSSAI orders removal of A1, A2 milk claims from products

New Delhi, Aug 22 (PTI) Food safety regulator FSSAI on Thursday directed food businesses, including e-commerce players, to remove claims of ‘A1’ and ‘A2’ types of milk and milk products from packaging, calling such labelling misleading. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) said these claims do not conform with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. However, current FSSAI regulations do not recognize this differentiation. “FBOs are instructed to remove such claims from their products,” the regulator said, referring to food business operators. E-commerce platforms were also told to remove these claims from products and websites immediately. Companies have been given six months to exhaust pre-printed labels, with no further extensions to be granted. A1 and A2 milk differ in their beta-casein protein composition, which varies based on cow breed. The regulator emphasized strict compliance with this directive. Welcoming the order, Parag Milk Foods Chairman Devendra ...