FSSAI Issues Warning Against Sale of Human Milk in India

In a decisive move to regulate food safety, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a stern warning against the sale and commercialization of human milk and its products. 

This directive, released on May 24, underscores the regulatory body's commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of food products in the country.

Advisory on Human Milk Commercialization

The FSSAI’s recent advisory, titled ‘Advisory on Unauthorized Commercialization of Human Milk and Its Products,’ addresses concerns raised by various registered societies regarding the commercial sale of human milk. 

The advisory clearly states that the FSSAI has not authorized the processing or sale of human milk under the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006, and the associated rules and regulations.

In its statement, the FSSAI emphasized, “It is advised that all such activities related to the commercialization of human milk and its products should be immediately stopped. 

Any violation of this may result in the initiation of action against the Food Business Operators (FBOs) in accordance with the FSS Act, 2006 and rules/regulations made thereunder.”

Furthermore, the FSSAI directed state and central licensing authorities to ensure that no licenses or registrations are granted to FBOs involved in the processing or selling of human milk. 

This proactive measure aims to prevent the unauthorized sale and distribution of a highly sensitive and potentially hazardous product.

Concerns Over Safety and Regulation

The commercialization of human milk raises several health and ethical concerns. Unlike other food products, human milk requires stringent handling and storage conditions to ensure its safety. 

The absence of clear regulatory guidelines and the potential for contamination and adulteration make the sale of human milk a particularly risky endeavor.

The FSSAI’s directive comes at a time when there is increasing awareness and scrutiny over food safety standards in India. 

The advisory reflects the regulatory body’s commitment to protecting public health by preventing the sale of unapproved and potentially unsafe food products.

Broader Implications for Food Safety

In a related development, the FSSAI has also been actively involved in ensuring the quality of other food products. 

On May 21, the FSSAI reported that it found no traces of ethylene oxide in samples of spices from major brands MDH and Everest that were tested in 28 accredited laboratories. 

This testing was part of a nationwide effort to address quality concerns flagged by Hong Kong and Singapore.

The Hong Kong Center for Food Safety had earlier advised consumers to avoid certain spice mix products from MDH and Everest due to the presence of ethylene oxide beyond permissible limits. 

This prompted the FSSAI to initiate a pan-India drive on April 22, collecting samples of powdered spices from various brands to ensure compliance with safety standards.

The FSSAI’s advisory against the sale of human milk is a significant step in safeguarding public health and maintaining the integrity of India’s food safety standards. 

By halting unauthorized commercialization and ensuring strict regulatory compliance, the FSSAI continues to uphold its mission of protecting consumers from potentially harmful food products.

This move serves as a reminder of the importance of robust food safety regulations and the need for vigilant enforcement to prevent the distribution of unsafe products. 

As the FSSAI continues its efforts to ensure food safety, consumers can take comfort in knowing that their health and well-being are being prioritized.