Recently, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued a directive that required dairy companies to remove A1 and A2 labels from their milk products. However, after receiving significant opposition, FSSAI has decided to withdraw this directive and revisit the issue.
What’s the Difference Between A1 and A2 Milk?
A1 and A2 refer to different types of beta-casein proteins found in milk. A1 protein is commonly found in milk from foreign breeds like Holstein cows, while A2 protein is found in milk from indigenous breeds such as Gir and Sahiwal cows, as well as buffaloes. A2 milk is known to be easier on the digestive system and is less likely to cause discomfort, making it a preferred choice for many people.
Why Did FSSAI Initially Ban These Labels?
FSSAI initially argued that the labels were misleading and did not conform to current food safety standards. They issued a directive on August 21, 2024, instructing companies to stop marketing their milk products as A1 or A2. This decision caused concern among those who rely on A2 milk for its digestive benefits and among supporters of indigenous cattle breeds.
The Pushback and Reversal
The directive faced strong opposition from experts and stakeholders, including Venugopal Badaravada, a member of the Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR). He argued that the ban could harm consumers’ ability to make informed choices and negatively impact the market for A2 milk, which supports indigenous breeds.
As a result of the pushback, FSSAI has decided to withdraw the directive. This means that companies can continue to label their products as A1 or A2 while FSSAI conducts further consultations.
What’s Next?
The decision to allow A1 and A2 labels to continue is a positive step for consumers who value transparency and want to make informed choices about their milk. It also supports the preservation of India’s indigenous cattle breeds, which are a source of A2 milk.
As the discussions around A1 and A2 milk continue, it’s important to stay informed and choose the products that best suit your health and lifestyle.
Stay tuned for further updates!
