
India bans sale and processing of breast milk
Last Updated on May 27, 2024 10:58 am
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has banned the sale of breast milk and products derived from breast milk in the hope of profiteering. . This information was given in a report of NDTV on Sunday (May 26).
The FSSAI said on Friday (May 24) that the FSS Act, 2006 and provisions made thereunder will not allow the processing and sale of breast milk. All activities related to commercialization of mother’s breast milk and its products should be stopped immediately.
Quoting the apex food regulatory body, the agency said that action will be taken against the Food Business Operators (FBOs) as per the FSS Act, 2006 and related rules and regulations in case of violation of this directive.
The FSSAI will not allow the processing and sale of breast milk under the FSS Act, 2006 and provisions made thereunder, the agency said in a statement. All activities related to commercialization of mother’s breast milk and its products should be stopped immediately.
In this context, the organization has directed the state and central licensing authorities to ensure that FBOs involved in the processing or sale of breast milk cannot issue any kind of license or registration.
According to national guidelines, donor human milk (DHM) or breast milk cannot be used for commercial purposes. This milk can only be given to newborns and infants admitted to health centers in hospitals that have a Comprehensive Lactation Management Center (CLMC).
According to Indian government regulations, the donor should donate breast milk freely and voluntarily without any monetary benefits. The donated milk will be used free of charge by newborns and babies of other mothers at the hospital.