In a strong move to safeguard consumer health, Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has intensified its crackdown on the use of fake paneer and cheese analogues in the food industry. FDA Minister Narhari Zirwal announced that strict action will be taken against those found guilty of selling or serving counterfeit paneer products.
Highlighting the widespread popularity of paneer—especially among children—Zirwal said the FDA’s investigations have revealed cases where consumers were misled and served imitation paneer or cheese analogues. “Licences of traders and vendors involved in such fraudulent practices will be cancelled immediately,” he stated.
As per the Food Safety and Standards Act, violators face serious consequences. Zirwal stressed that under the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display Regulations) Rules 2020, all food businesses—including restaurants, hotels, caterers, and fast-food outlets—are legally required to clearly display ingredient details and nutritional information on their menu cards, display boards, and order machines.
“The FDA is fully committed to consumer welfare. We will not tolerate any compromise on food quality. Orders have been issued to initiate stringent action against establishments that deceive consumers,” Zirwal added.
Food safety officers across the state have been instructed to examine the purchase and sales invoices of cheese analogue suppliers within their jurisdictions. Checks will also be conducted at restaurants, hotels, and catering services to ensure they are not substituting real paneer with alternatives. Food samples will be collected and analyzed, with immediate suspension of licenses for those found in violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and its associated rules.
To raise awareness and ensure compliance, the FDA has directed Divisional Joint Commissioners and the six regional Food Commissioners to organize workshops in collaboration with hotel associations. These sessions will aim to educate stakeholders about the legal requirements, including the necessity to disclose the use of cheese analogues on menus. Consumer awareness campaigns are also being planned to keep the public informed.
