FSSAI has initiated three cases against Nestlé India over infant-formula promotional claims and a follow-up formula sample that failed a biotin test.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has initiated three separate legal proceedings against Nestlé India over alleged violations involving infant-nutrition products.
Two cases concern promotional claims associated with NAN Excella Pro Stage 1 and Lactogen Pro 1. The third follows laboratory testing of a sample from an unnamed Nestlé follow-up formula that reportedly failed to meet India’s prescribed standard for biotin, also known as vitamin B7.
Regulator Questions Promotional Claims
FSSAI examined product labels and promotional material available through e-commerce platforms. It objected to claims relating to whey protein, five human milk oligosaccharides and digestibility.
The regulator maintains that such claims are not permitted under rules covering infant nutrition. Indian regulations restrict words, images and promotional statements intended to increase the saleability of infant milk substitutes and related food products.
FSSAI cited the Food Safety and Standards Regulations for infant nutrition and the Infant Milk Substitutes, Feeding Bottles and Infant Foods Act in its proceedings, according to The Indian Express.
Follow-Up Formula Fails Biotin Test
In the third case, a sample of follow-up formula was found to have biotin levels that did not conform to the applicable standard. The sample was sent to a referral laboratory for reanalysis, which reportedly confirmed the finding.
The prescribed range cited in the proceedings is between 7.5 and 50 micrograms of biotin. FSSAI has not publicly identified the specific follow-up formula product or announced a recall in connection with the proceedings.
Nestlé India Responds
Nestlé India said its products comply with the applicable regulations and label-declaration requirements. The company also said that the disputed labels had been scientifically evaluated and approved by an FSSAI expert committee.
“We confirm our adherence to regulations, including norms and label declarations as per laws,” a company spokesperson said, adding that Nestlé would continue cooperating with FSSAI.
The initiation of proceedings does not establish a final violation or mean that a penalty has already been imposed. The cases will now move through the regulatory adjudication process. Reuters reported that Nestlé India’s shares declined following news of the action.
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