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 draft was published in the Gazette of India on 16 October 2026 and proposes a restriction on the addition of sucrose and fructose to foods intended for infants up to six months of age.

The proposal aims to revise the rules governing the composition of infant nutrition products. However, it is important to note that the document is still a draft and should not be treated as a final regulation.

Key Provisions of the Proposed Amendment

The draft seeks to prohibit the addition of sucrose and fructose in food products specifically intended for infants up to six months old.

Under the existing regulatory framework, lactose and glucose polymers are preferred sources of carbohydrates in infant foods. Sucrose and fructose may be used only under prescribed conditions and within the applicable limits.

The proposed amendment would remove the provision allowing these sugars to be added to products intended for this age group. It specifically concerns regulated infant nutrition products and does not introduce a blanket ban on sucrose or fructose in all food products.

Why Is This Proposal Important?

The first six months of life are a critical period for infant growth and development. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months, followed by the introduction of appropriate complementary foods alongside continued breastfeeding.

The FSSAI proposal focuses on the composition of infant nutrition products and the ingredients permitted in them. If finalised, the amendment would change the existing rules governing the use of sucrose and fructose in products intended for infants up to six months of age.

About the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)

FSSAI is a statutory authority established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. It functions under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.

Its primary responsibilities include setting food standards, regulating food safety and ensuring that food products comply with the applicable legal requirements.

The Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Regulations, 2020, provide the regulatory framework for foods covered by the rules on infant nutrition.

FSSAI’s 2025 Consultation on Licensing

Earlier, on 1–2 May 2025, FSSAI issued a consultation paper proposing changes to the licensing arrangements for infant nutrition products. The proposal concerned moving new Basic Registrations and renewals to State or Central Licences.

The 2025 consultation and the 2026 draft amendment address different regulatory issues. The former focused on licensing requirements, while the latter concerns the permitted composition of infant nutrition products.

Important Facts for Competitive Exams

• Regulatory authority: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
• Relevant legislation: Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
• Existing regulations: Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Regulations, 2020
• Date of publication of the draft amendment: 16 October 2026
• Proposed restriction: Addition of sucrose and fructose to foods intended for infants up to six months of age
• Preferred carbohydrate sources under the existing framework: Lactose and glucose polymers
• Parent ministry: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
• Related development: FSSAI’s consultation paper on licensing arrangements, issued on 1–2 May 2025

Conclusion

The proposed amendment to the infant nutrition regulations is an important food safety development for competitive examination aspirants. It highlights FSSAI’s role in regulating the composition of specialised food products. Since the 2026 amendment remains a draft proposal, its final status and any subsequent changes should be checked against official FSSAI notifications and the Gazette of India.

Exam Tip: Remember the three key dates and laws associated with this development: the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006; the infant nutrition regulations of 2020; and the draft amendment published on 16 October 2026.