New Delhi: In a move aimed at protecting consumers from misleading marketing claims, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a directive banning the use of “A1” and “A2” labels on milk and milk products.
The FSSAI deemed these claims to be non-compliant with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The regulator explained that the differentiation between A1 and A2 milk is based on the structure of the beta-casein protein, which varies between cow breeds. However, current FSSAI regulations do not recognize this distinction.
Strict Enforcement and Deadlines:
The FSSAI has instructed food business operators (FBOs) to immediately remove A1 and A2 claims from their products. E-commerce platforms have also been directed to delist products with such labels from their websites. To ensure compliance, the regulator has given companies six months to exhaust their existing pre-printed labels. No extensions will be granted beyond this period.
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Industry Reactions:
The FSSAI’s decision has been welcomed by industry experts. Parag Milk Foods Chairman, Devendra Shah, praised the regulator for taking a stand against misleading marketing tactics. Shah emphasized that the A1 and A2 categorization is a marketing gimmick and that it’s crucial to eliminate such claims to prevent consumer misinformation.
A Global Trend:
It’s worth noting that the trend of labeling milk products as A1 or A2 is gradually fading away globally. The FSSAI’s clarification aligns with this broader understanding.
Conclusion:
The FSSAI’s ban on A1 and A2 milk claims marks a significant step towards ensuring consumer protection and promoting transparency in the food industry. By eliminating misleading labels, the regulator aims to empower consumers to make informed choices about the products they consume.
