Mundhe, who made headlines last year for tightening restaurant hygiene standards, now turns his attention to infant nutrition. A recent FDA survey revealed widespread non‑compliance, with many brands lacking breastfeeding mandates on their labels. The agency has therefore issued a comprehensive order targeting all baby food products.
Under the new rules, manufacturers must display the phrase "Mother's Milk Is Best" prominently on every package. Images of mothers holding their infants are prohibited, and any promotional material that offers free samples or discount coupons is banned. Products must also include a disclaimer that they are intended only as supplementary food for children over six months and should be used only after medical advice.
Mundhe cited statewide data showing that only 52.8% of urban mothers initiate breastfeeding within the first hour, compared with 75.2% in rural areas. The agency links these gaps to a 25% prevalence of high blood pressure among children aged 10‑12 in Maharashtra. The new labeling requirement aims to raise awareness and encourage exclusive breastfeeding during the early months.
Manufacturers are given 60 days to redesign their packaging and remove all prohibited imagery. The FDA will conduct quarterly audits of compliance, and violations could trigger fines or product recalls. Industry associations have called for clearer guidelines, while health experts applaud the initiative as a step toward reducing long‑term chronic disease risk for the state's youngest citizens.