Maharashtra FDA mandates breastfeeding warning on all infant food packaging

Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration, under commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, announced a new mandatory label for packaged infant foods stating “Mother’s Milk Is Best For Your Baby.” The directive covers supplementary foods and cereals for children up to two years and follows a state-wide survey that found many products missing the warning, though it does not prohibit formula milk sales provided manufacturers follow the Infant Food Regulation Act.

Mundhe cited data showing a 75.2% breastfeeding rate in rural Maharashtra versus 52.8% in urban areas, urging that complementary foods be introduced only after six months and that packaging avoid images of mothers or babies. The regulation also bans advertising of infant foods. Since taking office in May, Mundhe’s team has inspected over 3,000 food businesses, suspending licences of several US chains and, most recently, the 122-year-old Irani café Kyani & Co after finding cats, rat droppings and insects in food-prep areas. He warned that authorities will continue strict enforcement against establishments selling expired or unhygienic products.