The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has reversed its previous decision to ban A1 and A2 milk labeling on packaging. Originally issued on August 22, this ban was based on claims that A1 and A2 distinctions were misleading and not compliant with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. However, FSSAI has decided to withdraw the order for further consultation with stakeholders. A1 and A2 milk differ in the beta-casein protein structure and are derived from different breeds of cows, with A2 milk coming from Indian breeds and A1 milk from European breeds.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has retracted its previous directive that mandated the removal of A1 and A2 milk labeling from packaging. The regulatory authority’s earlier decision, which was issued on August 22, 2024, had deemed these claims misleading and not in line with the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006. This reversal comes after feedback and consultations with stakeholders, including dairy industry experts and researchers.
Regulatory Reversal
On August 26, 2024, FSSAI announced the withdrawal of its earlier order, citing the need for further discussions with stakeholders. The initial directive had instructed e-commerce platforms and food companies to eliminate A1 and A2 labels from dairy products, arguing that the distinction between the two types of milk—based on the beta-casein protein structure—was not supported by the current food safety regulations.
Understanding A1 and A2 Milk
The difference between A1 and A2 milk lies in the beta-casein protein structure, which varies according to the breed of cow. Typically, A2 milk comes from indigenous Indian breeds such as Red Sindhi, Sahiwal, Gir, Devni, and Tharparkar, which are known for their protein richness. In contrast, A1 milk is produced by European cattle breeds, including Jersey, Ayrshire, and British Shorthorn, which are often the result of cross-breeding.
Also Read- FSSAI Cracks Down: A1 and A2 Milk Claims Disappear from Packaging
Also Read- The Controversy Surrounding A1 and A2 Milk and Why an ICAR Member Wrote to PM Modi
Controversy and Reactions
The original order sparked considerable debate within the dairy industry. While some milk companies welcomed the decision, praising the move as beneficial for business, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) scientists and dairy researchers voiced strong opposition. ICAR members had even written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, challenging the regulatory decision.
Impact on the Dairy Sector
FSSAI’s latest decision to retract the labeling ban is expected to have significant implications for the dairy sector in India, particularly in terms of product marketing and consumer awareness. The authority’s change of stance reflects a willingness to engage with industry feedback and adjust regulations based on a broader consultation process.
The reversal of FSSAI’s decision underscores the ongoing debate surrounding milk labeling standards and the importance of aligning regulatory practices with scientific research and industry needs. The dairy sector in India will be closely watching the developments and subsequent guidelines issued by FSSAI to ensure compliance and clarity.
