Maharashtra FDA orders infant food labels to stress that mother’s milk is best

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a new regulation requiring every infant food product to carry a clear statement that a mother’s milk is the best source of nutrition for babies. The notice must be printed prominently on the packaging, ensuring that parents are reminded of the benefits of breastfeeding when they purchase formula or other baby foods.

The directive applies to all categories of infant food sold within the state, including powdered milk, cereals, and ready‑to‑eat meals. Manufacturers and distributors have been given a compliance deadline, after which non‑conforming products may be barred from sale.

Maharashtra FDA officials said the move aligns with national health guidelines that promote exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. The agency will monitor compliance through routine inspections and will impose penalties on firms that fail to meet the labeling requirement.

Consumer groups welcomed the measure, noting that clear labeling can help parents make informed choices and reinforce public health messages about the importance of breastfeeding. The FDA plans to review the impact of the rule in the coming months and may consider extending similar requirements to other states.