Representative image. ajay_suresh, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
.jpg){kind=link}
Why it matters
Parents often choose baby formula and health drinks based on what the pack promises. The notices test whether claims about digestion, immunity and growth can be backed by evidence, and the outcome could change what brands are allowed to print. No recall or sales ban has been announced while the companies respond.
India’s food regulator has issued an FSSAI notice to Nestle India over claims printed on two infant formula products, Lactogen Pro 1 and Nan Excella Pro Stage 1, and a separate notice to Zydus Wellness over claims on Complan. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has asked both companies to show scientific proof for what their packs and adverts say, or explain why action should not be taken.
The regulator made the notices public in social media posts. Business Standard reported that they were issued on Monday, 19 October 2026. Both The Hindu and Business Standard reported the details on 21 October.
What the FSSAI notice says about Lactogen and Nan
On Lactogen Pro 1 Powder, the regulator flagged the line that the product contains whey protein, described on the pack as a part of milk protein that is easy to digest. FSSAI has asked Nestle to submit scientific evidence that supports this claim.
Its objection to Nan Excella Pro Stage 1 goes further. The pack says the product’s five HMOs (human milk oligosaccharides) help support the normal immune system. FSSAI said this suggests the formula is suitable for supporting immunity, which links it to a physiological condition. According to the regulator, the food rules do not allow claims about preventing, easing, treating or curing any disease, disorder or condition unless a regulation specifically permits them. The same whey protein line also appears on Nan, and proof was sought for it too.
The FSSAI notice tells Nestle to explain, within the time given, why action should not begin under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Business Standard said it had sought a response from Nestle, which was awaited when it went to press. Nestle India has not commented publicly on the notices.
Why Complan and Zydus Wellness also got an FSSAI notice
Complan’s label shows two children and carries the lines “2X Faster Growth”, “Supports Concentration and Memory” and “Pro Immunity+ 34 Vital Nutrients”, The Hindu reported. FSSAI said these break the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018. It also objected to the advertising line “Growth Comes in 4 Flavours”.
Zydus Wellness has been asked for scientific justification for the claims and to show cause why it should not face action. The company has not commented publicly.
Other FSSAI actions this month
Nestle India was also named, along with Abbott Healthcare, Nutricia International and Mead Johnson Nutrition (India), in another notice over the promotion of infant milk substitutes on Instagram. FSSAI alleged that a “Top 5” infant formula reel by an influencer broke the Infant Milk Substitutes Act, 1992, and the 2020 regulations on foods for infant nutrition, Business Standard reported. The companies have not commented publicly on that notice either.
In another FSSAI notice, quick-commerce firm Zepto was asked to explain the delivery of two packs of besan marked “use by” 12 September 2026. Zepto has been told to withdraw the affected stock and refund buyers. Separately, enforcement was sought against three other food businesses, and adjudication proceedings were approved against one more over misleading claims.
On 15 October, FSSAI reminded makers of nutraceuticals and health supplements that warnings on herbal ingredients must be clear and easy to read. It gave examples such as a caution that neem is not for people planning to conceive.
What parents should know about the FSSAI notice
An FSSAI notice is not a ban. The regulator has not announced any recall or sales ban for these products. The notices made public so far concern the claims on packs and in adverts.
Infant food is one of the most tightly controlled food categories in India, and the regulator has been active on it. The Hindu has reported that FSSAI has also proposed a ban on added sucrose and fructose in foods for babies up to six months old, with the government calling early exposure to added sugar a public health concern.
If the companies cannot back their claims, FSSAI can take action under the 2006 Act. Notices and orders are posted on the FSSAI website. For more on health policy in India, read our report on the dengue vaccine pilot in Tamil Nadu.
Frequently asked questions
Has FSSAI banned Lactogen or Nan?
No. FSSAI issued notices asking Nestle India to support its claims and explain why action should not be taken. No ban or recall has been announced.
What did FSSAI object to on Complan?
Claims including "2X Faster Growth", "Supports Concentration and Memory" and "Pro Immunity+ 34 Vital Nutrients", which it said break the 2018 advertising and claims rules.
What happens next?
Nestle and Zydus must reply within the period FSSAI set. If the regulator is not satisfied, it can act under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.