FSSAI moves against Nestlé over baby formula claims and biotin test

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken regulatory action against Nestlé India over alleged violations related to its infant nutrition products. Three separate cases have been initiated, each concerning different aspects of the products.

Two of the cases focus on promotional claims made for NAN Excella Pro Stage 1 and Lactogen Pro 1 infant formulas. FSSAI raised concerns over statements regarding whey protein content and digestibility of whey protein in Lactogen Pro 1. Such marketing claims are prohibited under India's regulations for infant nutrition products, which also ban certain terms like "Humanised" and "Maternalised."

The third case involves a follow-up formula intended for older infants and children. FSSAI found non-conforming levels of biotin, a B vitamin, in a sample. Biotin is crucial for various metabolic processes. The regulator sent the product for re-analysis, and the findings were confirmed by a separate laboratory. Infant formula must contain between 7.5 and 50 micrograms of biotin per serving, as per the applicable standards.

Nestlé India has responded by stating that its products comply with all relevant regulations. The company asserts that the contested labels have been scientifically validated and approved by FSSAI's expert committee. The regulatory action, which is still at the investigative stage, underscores the importance of proper labeling and claims in infant nutrition products. The outcome of these investigations could set precedents for other companies in the sector.