By Mewati Sitaram
The Indian dairy sector has expressed approval of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India’s (FSSAI) recent decision to retract its directive on labeling A1 and A2 milk products. Initially issued on August 21, 2024, the directive aimed to address potential consumer confusion over A1 and A2 claims on dairy items, particularly ghee, which lacks protein content.
FSSAI’s withdrawal follows industry feedback, paving the way for further stakeholder consultations. The ongoing debate about A1 and A2 milk revolves around their differing beta-casein protein structures, with A2 milk, sourced from indigenous cow breeds, being increasingly sought after for its digestibility and perceived health benefits.
Companies such as Hari HariBol Dairy Pvt. Ltd. have adopted transparent labeling practices, offering DNA-tested A2 cow milk to assure consumers of product authenticity. As Mr. Yachneet Pushkarna, CEO of Hari HariBol Dairy Pvt. Ltd., stated, “At Hari HariBol, we have always maintained transparency with consumers, labeling our ghee as ‘Desi Cow Ghee’ or ‘Bilona Ghee,’ ensuring clarity and preventing confusion around A2 claims.” Hari HariBol consciously avoids using the term “A2 Ghee” to maintain clarity, as ghee is fat-based and does not contain proteins like A1 or A2.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
