Maharashtra has now completely banned the manufacture, storage and sale of non-dairy paneer. People who violate this rule can now face up to six months in jail or will have to pay a fine of ₹1 lakh. Here’s why this decision was taken and why it is considered such a huge step.
Maharashtra Bans Sale Of Fake Or Non-Dairy Paneer
Non-dairy paneer or fake dairy paneer was being passed off as real milk paneer in many markets in Maharashtra. But not anymore. According to India Today, the state’s FDA has completely banned the manufacture and sale of analogue or non-dairy paneer. Violators could face up to six months in jail and a fine of ₹1 lakh.
In cases where the consumption of unsafe food results in death, the law under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 provides for life imprisonment and a minimum fine of ₹10 lakh. The move aims to curb the sale of adulterated dairy products and ensure people’s health. Reportedly, Maharashtra has become the second state after Chhattisgarh to impose such a ban. Apart from manufacturing, the ban also includes processing, packing, storage, transportation, wholesale, retail sale and distribution of non-dairy or fake paneer.
What Is Analogue Paneer?
Paneer has been a go-to source of protein and calcium for many years, but it has also been a target of food adulteration. Instead of using real milk, many manufacturers are making and selling analogue or fake paneer. It is typically made using vegetable fats or oils and other non-dairy ingredients as substitutes for milk fat. These products may resemble traditional paneer, but they are not.
Real paneer should always be made from milk with no added starch, non-dairy fats or artificial ingredients. Yes, the FSSAI permits the sale of analogue paneer, but only if the label clearly discloses it. According to India Today, the decision comes amid an intensified crackdown on adulterated dairy products in Maharashtra.
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FAQs
What is analogue paneer?
Analogue paneer is a paneer-like product made using vegetable fats or other non-dairy ingredients instead of milk.