Hotels to lose licence if found using non-dairy paneer

MUMBAI: The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has issued a stern warning to hotels and caterers, threatening suspension of their licences if they substitute paneer with cheese analogues in their culinary offerings. These establishments are now required to disclose such substitutions to consumers via clear signage and menu information.

Cheese analogues, often plant-based and non-dairy, are typically used as cheaper substitutes for cheese. The recent directives from FDA commissioner Rajesh Narvekar stress the necessity of transparency and consumer rights under Section 18(2)(e) of the Food Safety and Standards Act. This mandates that consumers be informed of the actual ingredients within their meals.

Part of the FDA's proactive approach includes inspection raids to identify establishments misusing cheese analogues without disclosure. Field officers have been instructed to scrutinize at least ten establishments in their regions, with the authority to suspend licenses upon the verification of malpractice. Additionally, workshops aimed at educating consumers about the use of cheese analogues are to be conducted by May 2, in alignment with the FDA's ultimate goal of maintaining food safety and consumer awareness.