Maharashtra Enforces Ban on Non-Dairy Paneer with Heavy Penalties
Maharashtra has taken a stringent step by banning the manufacture and sale of non-dairy paneer throughout the state. This measure, enforced by the Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, is part of an effort to combat the proliferation of counterfeit and adulterated dairy products. Those found violating the ban could face imprisonment of up to six months and a fine of Rs 1 lakh, as stipulated under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The ban specifically targets analogue paneer, which is typically made using vegetable fats or oils instead of milk fat, often misleading consumers into believing it is genuine dairy paneer. According to the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA), selling such products as authentic paneer without proper disclosure is considered an unfair trade practice under the law.
Under the regulations of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), paneer must be made solely from milk, without any added starch, non-dairy fats, or synthetic substances. While FSSAI allows for the sale of analogue paneer, it must be accurately labeled and disclosed to consumers.
Last year, the issue of analogue paneer was a significant topic in the Maharashtra Assembly, leading to calls for its complete prohibition. The official ban order was issued on July 30, formalizing the restriction on all major activities related to these products across the state.
Maharashtra's crackdown on adulterated dairy products includes an intensified statewide enforcement drive that began in May. This initiative has led to numerous raids and seizures, including a significant operation at a facility in Pune's Manjari Khurd, where authorities confiscated approximately 1,400 kg of fake paneer made from cheaper substitutes.
The authorities also seized 1,800 kg of skimmed milk powder, 400 kg of glycerol monostearate (GMS) powder, and 718 liters of palm oil, which were allegedly used in the production of counterfeit dairy items. Concurrently, inspections of restaurants and hotels across Mumbai and other regions of Maharashtra have resulted in multiple closures and license cancellations due to non-compliance with hygiene standards.
