The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration has introduced stricter labelling rules for infant food products, emphasising breastfeeding as the best option and banning promotional images and tactics to encourage maternal and child health.
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration has ordered a stricter set of rules for infant food packaging, requiring manufacturers to place the warning “Mother’s Milk Is Best For Your Baby” prominently on packs sold in the state. According to reporting by News18 and Livemint, the directive covers products for children up to two years old, including cereals and supplementary foods, and is aimed at reinforcing breastfeeding as the preferred source of infant nutrition.
The move does not amount to a ban on formula milk or other commercial baby foods. Rather, the FDA says companies may continue to sell these products if they comply with the new labelling, packaging and promotional standards. Business Standard reported that the order extends beyond manufacturers to importers, distributors, retailers, hospitals, pharmacies and e-commerce platforms handling infant nutrition products.
Under the new rules, companies will not be allowed to use pictures of mothers and babies on packaging, and they must avoid any presentation that suggests their products are comparable to breast milk. The FDA has also barred promotional tactics such as free samples and discount coupons. Labels must make clear that the product is supplementary food and should be used only on the advice of a health worker, according to the reports.
FDA commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has said a survey found significant compliance gaps among manufacturers, including a failure to highlight breastfeeding messages. He linked the tougher stance to concern over breastfeeding rates in Maharashtra, saying urban and rural figures remain below what health officials would like to see. Business Standard also reported that violations could attract penalties under the Food Safety and Standards Act, including fines for misleading advertising, substandard food and misbranding.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
