FSSAI Orders Removal of A1, A2 Milk Labels

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has mandated that food businesses, including e-commerce platforms, remove claims about A1 and A2 types of milk and milk products from their packaging, calling such labels misleading. This directive, issued on August 21, 2023, highlights that the distinction between A1 and A2 milk is based on the beta-casein protein structure, which can confuse consumers. Companies have been given six months to phase out existing labels carrying these claims. The FSSAI's decision comes amid debates and marketing practices promoting A2 milk as a healthier option, though scientific consensus on this is still inconclusive. Major players like the Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) and private firms have agreed to comply with the directive, removing A1 and A2 references from their product packaging. The regulatory body emphasizes that current FSSAI regulations do not recognize this differentiation, and compliance is mandatory.