The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recently taken action against food companies and e-commerce platforms to remove A1 and A2 labels from dairy products like milk, ghee, butter, and curd, stating that these labels are misleading.
In a directive issued on Thursday, the FSSAI noted that these claims do not align with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
They have instructed food businesses to immediately remove references to A1 and A2 proteins from their products and websites.
The distinction between A1 and A2 milk is based on the type of beta-casein protein in the milk, which varies by cow breed.
While some studies suggest A2 milk may be healthier, research is still ongoing. Some studies indicate that A1 beta-casein might be harmful, whereas A2 beta-casein could be a safer option.
Parag Milk Foods Chairman has criticised the A1 and A2 categories as mere marketing ploys. He emphasised the importance of eliminating misleading claims that can confuse consumers.
On the social media platform X, a user named @TheLiverDoc commented, "Every A2 milk fraudster seller out there is going crazy that their swindling business is going bust. You can fool people for a limited time only!"