FSSAI withdraws advisory on A1 and A2 milk claims, to consult further

FSSAI Advisory: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India on Monday withdrew its recent advisory, wherein food businesses were directed to drop claims being made by them on 'A1' and 'A2' types of milk and milk products from their packaging.

Now the regulator reported that the advisory issued initially on August 21st is removed and put under consultation and engaging with all stakeholders. So, henceforth the food business operators are at liberty to continue with the sale and marketing of the food products having labeling claims on milk as 'A1' and 'A2'.

The Difference between the 'A1' and 'A2' milk is it is one subtype of beta-casein protein present in the milk depending on the cow breed.

The previous advisory, however, lapsed and is no longer effective, FSSAI has confirmed in its latest call for action. "The advisory dated August 21, 2024. stands withdrawn for further consultation and engagement with the stakeholders," said the regulator.

The first advisory had asked the FBOs to drop from their product labels all claims with regard to the products being 'A1' and 'A2', and e-commerce was directed to drop such claims from their product listings and websites without further delay. The FSSAI was of the view that such claims were in contravention of the Food Safety and Standards Act, of 2006.

On examination, FSSAI found that A1 and A2 milk was distinguished based on the structure of the beta-casein protein. However, this was not allowed under the present FSSAI rules.

The August 21 advisory had also made it clear that the FBOs be given until six months to discard the pre-printed labels making A1 and A2 claims, a move which is not given more than that timeline extension period.

Following the withdrawal of the directive, the FSSAI is seen to be engaging in further discussions that will help define the future of such claims within the Indian market.