State Imposes Complete Ban On Analogue Paneer
The Maharashtra government has imposed a complete ban on the manufacture, processing, packing, storage, transportation, distribution, and sale of analogue (non-dairy) paneer across the state.
The decision has been taken under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, following concerns that analogue paneer is often sold as genuine dairy paneer, misleading consumers and posing potential health risks.
Strict Punishment For Violators
Authorities have warned that anyone violating the order could face up to six months’ imprisonment and a fine of up to ₹1 lakh.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also made it clear that selling analogue paneer as real dairy paneer will be treated as an unfair trade practice, and strict legal action will be taken against manufacturers, distributors, retailers, restaurants, and caterers found violating the ban.
What Is Analogue Paneer?
Unlike traditional paneer made entirely from milk, analogue paneer is prepared using vegetable fats, starch, emulsifiers, and other non-dairy ingredients. It is significantly cheaper to produce and is often used as a substitute in restaurants, hotels, and processed foods.
Officials say consumers are frequently unaware that they are purchasing or consuming a non-dairy product marketed as genuine paneer.
How Consumers Can Identify Fake Paneer
The report highlights several ways to identify analogue paneer. Genuine paneer usually has a soft, crumbly texture and a fresh milk aroma, while analogue paneer often appears rubbery or overly smooth.
Real paneer also melts differently when heated and has a natural milky taste, whereas analogue products may leave an oily residue due to the presence of vegetable fats.
Consumers are advised to purchase paneer from trusted brands or certified dairy outlets to ensure authenticity.
Move Aims To Protect Consumer Health
The Maharashtra government’s decision is intended to curb food adulteration and improve food safety standards across the state. By banning analogue paneer from being manufactured and sold, authorities hope to prevent consumer deception while ensuring that dairy products sold in the market meet prescribed quality standards.
Summary
Maharashtra has imposed a complete ban on the manufacture, storage, transport, distribution, and sale of analogue paneer. Violators can face up to six months in jail and a fine of ₹1 lakh under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The government says the move is aimed at preventing food adulteration, protecting consumers, and stopping non-dairy paneer from being sold as genuine dairy paneer.
