The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed prohibiting the addition of sucrose and fructose in food products intended for infants up to six months of age. The proposed amendment aims to strengthen infant nutrition standards and minimise exposure to added sugars during early infancy.

The draft Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Amendment Regulations, 2026 was published in the Gazette of India on October 16, 2026, for public consultation. Stakeholders have 60 days from the date the Gazette notification becomes available to submit objections and suggestions. The proposal is not yet a final regulation.

Under the existing Food Safety and Standards (Foods for Infant Nutrition) Regulations, 2020, products intended for children from birth to 24 months must meet prescribed nutritional composition, quality and safety requirements. Lactose and glucose polymers are identified as preferred carbohydrate sources, while sucrose and fructose may currently be added when required as carbohydrate sources, subject to specified limits.

The proposed amendment would introduce a specific restriction for products intended for infants aged up to six months, stating that sucrose and fructose shall not be added to these products. FSSAI will consider stakeholder representations before finalising the amendment.

The move is intended to support age-appropriate nutrition during the first six months of life, a critical period for infant growth and development. It also aligns with public health recommendations promoting exclusive breastfeeding during this period and efforts to minimise early exposure to added sugars, which are associated with dietary risk factors for childhood obesity and related health concerns.

The proposed change would require manufacturers of covered infant nutrition products to review their formulations and ensure compliance if the amendment is finalised. The measure forms part of India’s broader focus on preventive healthcare, food safety and stronger nutritional safeguards for children.

By tightening standards for infant food products, FSSAI aims to ensure that formulations prioritise infants’ nutritional requirements rather than unnecessary added sugars. The final scope and implementation timeline will depend on the outcome of the consultation process and the final notification.