FSSAI issues warning against sale of human milk in India
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 in the country. The regulatory body clarified that such activities are not permitted under the FSS Act, 2006, along with its associated rules and regulations. The authority's advisory note stated, "FSSAI has not permitted the processing and/or selling of human milk under FSS Act, 2006 and rules/regulations made thereunder."
Licensing authorities instructed against approving human milk sales
The regulatory body warned that any violation of this directive could result in action against the food business operators (FBOs). Furthermore, it instructed licensing authorities to refrain from approving units involved in the sale of human milk. The FSSAI has also instructed state and central licensing authorities to ensure that no license or registration is granted to food business operators involved in the processing or selling of human milk.
Donations of human milk permitted, commercialization prohibited
While the commercialization of human milk is prohibited, its donation is allowed under national guidelines. However, Donor Human Milk (DHM) cannot be used for commercial purposes. It must be provided free of charge to newborns and infants admitted to health facilities with Comprehensive Lactation Management Centres (CLMCs). The guidelines specify that the donation should be done freely and voluntarily, without any monetary benefits to the donor.
