The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has decided that dairy products like milk, ghee, butter, and curd should no longer be labeled as “A1” or “A2.” The FSSAI believes these labels can confuse consumers, so companies that currently use these labels have six months to sell their existing stock before they must stop using them.
Understanding A1 and A2
A1 and A2 are types of proteins found in cow’s milk, specifically a protein called beta-casein. The difference between A1 and A2 depends on the breed of the cow:
- A1 beta-casein: Mostly found in milk from cows of Northern European breeds, like Holsteins.
- A2 beta-casein: Found in milk from breeds native to areas like the Channel Islands and Southern France, such as Guernsey cows.
Most regular milk contains both A1 and A2 proteins, but “A2 milk” is marketed as having only the A2 protein.
Health Concerns
There is ongoing research about whether A1 or A2 milk is better for health. Some studies suggest that A2 milk might cause fewer digestive problems for some people, but others find no clear evidence that A1 milk is harmful. Since the scientific evidence isn’t conclusive, the FSSAI wants to prevent any misleading health claims about these types of milk.
What FSSAI Is Doing
To protect consumers from unverified claims, the FSSAI has ruled that food businesses can no longer label products as A1 or A2. This rule applies to all dairy products, and even online stores must follow it immediately.
What Scientists Say
In the past, studies, like a 2009 review by the European Food Safety Authority, concluded that there was no need to distinguish between A1 and A2 milk. Scientists believe more research is needed to understand the potential health effects of these proteins better. The FSSAI’s decision aims to reduce confusion and prevent misleading marketing in India’s dairy industry. As the debate over A1 and A2 milk continues, consumers need to have accurate information based on reliable scientific evidence.
About FSSAI
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) was established in 2006 under the Food Safety and Standards Act. Its primary goal is to ensure that food in India is safe and of high quality. FSSAI has introduced a unique five-digit license number for food businesses to promote transparency. The authority also conducts research and raises awareness about food safety. The FSSAI logo, which features a fork and a wheat sheaf, symbolizes the organization’s focus on food quality. FSSAI also monitors food safety practices across the country with its Food Safety and Nutrition Index.
