In Hyderabad, fake dairy has sounded alarm bells as food safety authorities step up the campaign against dairy substitutes—non-milk foods used commonly as substitutes for traditional dairy. In the festive season, as the demands have increased, the authorities have directed states to step up surveillance to avoid food adulteration and misbranding. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued an order directing all states to keep a close watch on dairy substitutes throughout March.
What Are Dairy Analogues?
Dairy analogues are milk-free products that possess the consistency and functionality of milk foods. Some of these are soy milk, almond milk, analogue paneer, vegan cheese, and coconut milk. Nonetheless, their growing popularity, particularly in retail chains and street food vendors, has created safety and proper regulation issues.
As reported by Telangana Today, fake dairies in Hyderabad have been evoking alarm over increased analogue paneer consumption, which is typically prepared with vegetable oil, starch, and additives. The experts alert that such imitations can prove unhealthy because of artificial content and a lack of standardisation.
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Regulatory Action To Avoid Misleading Consumers
To ensure public health protection, FSSAI regulations mandate that dairy analogues not be mislabelled as milk or milk products. The government points out that although such replacements may be good for people with lactose intolerance, appropriate labelling and alertness should prevail in order not to prevent misleading consumers.
With increased monitoring in Hyderabad and across the country, food safety regulators will be able to stop adulterated and mislabelled products from hitting the shelves. Patients are also advised to read labels and remain attentive towards the dairy products they consume.
As the festive season continues, emphasis is placed on providing safe and authentic dairy products to the customers. The Hyderabad fake dairy is a reminder to be vigilant about food quality and authenticity.
Also Read: Why Are People Talking About Cockroach Milk, The New Super Food On The Market?
As consumers, it is our right to know what we are consuming. Did you ever look at the packaging of your milk products? It is maybe time to start reading them.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (For Representation)
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First Published: March 15, 2025 10:02 AM