The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is set to implement stricter regulations on protein supplements, responding to growing concerns over potential health risks associated with their consumption. This move comes as the popularity of protein powders and shakes continues to surge among fitness enthusiasts and athletes across the country. The new guidelines aim to address issues such as mislabeling, adulteration, and the presence of harmful substances in these products. An FSSAI official told ET, “There are a lot of protein products in the market which are more harmful than beneficial. The idea is to have stringent norms so that there is no damage to public health.” As consumers become increasingly health-conscious, understanding these impending changes and their implications for both manufacturers and users is crucial.
Health risks prompting FSSAI’s tighter regulations
Alok Singh founder, Diga Organics, and food science expert, Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, says, “The FSSAI’s heightened regulations are a direct response to concerning findings in the protein supplement market. Studies have revealed the presence of heavy metals like lead and mercury, which can accumulate in the body and pose significant health risks over time.” Additionally, he says, microbial contamination with bacteria and fungi has been detected, raising concerns about infections and gastrointestinal problems. The presence of undeclared ingredients further compounds these risks, as consumers may unknowingly consume substances they are allergic to or interact negatively with medications. “Mislabelling and inaccurate dosage information on labels have also been identified as issues, leading to potential under or overconsumption of protein, both of which can have adverse health consequences.”
Key changes in FSSAI’s new regulations
Singh explains, “The FSSAI’s new regulations aim to address these concerns through a multi-pronged approach. This includes mandatory testing for contaminants like heavy metals and microbes to ensure product safety. The regulations also mandate accurate labelling, requiring manufacturers to provide clear and precise information about protein content, ingredients, allergens, and recommended dosages.” Stricter limits have been imposed on permissible levels of heavy metals, toxins, and other potentially harmful substances in protein supplements. To enforce these new standards, the FSSAI will conduct regular audits and compliance checks on manufacturing facilities, ensuring that manufacturers adhere to the regulations and maintain the highest levels of product safety and quality.
Impact on manufacturers and consumers
These regulations will have a significant impact on both manufacturers and consumers, agrees Singh. For manufacturers, there will be increased production costs due to enhanced testing and quality control measures. They will also need to invest in compliance infrastructure to avoid penalties. However, in the long run, manufacturers who adhere to these standards may benefit from increased consumer trust and potentially higher sales. He continues, “For consumers, the regulations promise safer and higher-quality protein supplements. With accurate labelling, consumers can make informed decisions about their supplement intake, ensuring they consume the appropriate amount of protein and avoid potentially harmful ingredients. However, the increased production costs may translate into slightly higher prices for consumers.”
Recommendations for consumers “To ensure safety, consumers are advised to look for FSSAI certification on product labels, which indicates compliance with the new regulations. They should also carefully read labels, paying close attention to protein content, ingredients, allergens, and recommended dosages,” Singh suggests. Purchasing supplements from reputable brands and retailers can help avoid counterfeit or substandard products. Finally, consulting healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement regimen is crucial, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions.
