FSSAI Issues Clarification on Marketing of Milk and Milk Products Under A1 and A2 Labels

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a critical clarification concerning the marketing and sale of milk and milk products, particularly those labeled as A1 and A2. The clarification addresses the use of FSSAI License Numbers and Registration Certificate Numbers in relation to these products, aiming to ensure that consumers are not misled by marketing practices and that all products meet the requisite safety standards.

In recent years, there has been growing consumer interest in A1 and A2 milk, which are distinguished based on the type of beta-casein protein they contain. A2 milk is often promoted as being easier to digest and having potential health benefits, leading to a surge in its market demand. However, concerns have been raised about the accuracy and legitimacy of claims made by some producers and marketers, prompting the FSSAI to step in.

FSSAI’s Clarification on A1 and A2 Milk Products

The FSSAI’s statement emphasized that while the differentiation between A1 and A2 milk is recognized, all milk products must comply with the standards set by the FSSAI, regardless of their classification. The authority highlighted that the use of FSSAI License Numbers and Registration Certificate Numbers in marketing should not be employed to imply any special endorsement or certification of A1 or A2 products over other milk products.

“The FSSAI does not specifically endorse or differentiate between A1 and A2 milk and milk products under the FSSAI License Number or Registration Certificate Number,” the statement read. The regulatory body further clarified that all dairy products marketed under these labels must adhere to the same stringent safety and quality standards as all other dairy products under its jurisdiction.

Addressing Misleading Marketing Practices

One of the key concerns addressed by the FSSAI was the potential for misleading marketing practices. Some companies have been found to use the FSSAI License Number in a way that suggests a unique approval for A2 milk, which could mislead consumers into believing that these products are inherently superior or officially recommended over regular milk.

The FSSAI’s clarification aims to curb such practices and ensure that consumers make informed choices based on accurate information. “It is crucial that consumers are not misled by marketing tactics that suggest one type of milk is safer or more beneficial solely based on its A1 or A2 classification,” the FSSAI stated. The authority has warned companies against making unsupported claims and has urged consumers to verify the information provided on product labels.

Implications for Dairy Producers and Marketers

For dairy producers and marketers, the FSSAI’s clarification serves as a reminder to maintain transparency and honesty in their product labeling and marketing efforts. The authority has advised all companies dealing in milk and milk products to review their labeling practices to ensure compliance with FSSAI regulations.

Companies that are found to be in violation of these guidelines may face penalties, including the suspension or revocation of their FSSAI License. The FSSAI also encourages producers to educate consumers about the actual benefits and differences between A1 and A2 milk, based on scientifically supported facts, rather than relying on marketing hype.

Consumer Awareness and Safety

The FSSAI’s move is part of a broader effort to enhance consumer awareness and safety in the food industry. By clarifying the regulations around the marketing of A1 and A2 milk, the FSSAI aims to protect consumers from potentially misleading information and ensure that all dairy products sold in the market meet the highest safety and quality standards.

Consumers are encouraged to look for the FSSAI License Number on dairy products as an assurance of safety and compliance with national standards, rather than as an indicator of any special health benefits associated with A1 or A2 milk. The FSSAI will continue to monitor the market and take necessary actions to uphold these standards.