Why Maharashtra Banned Non-Dairy Paneer and What Penalties Violators Will Face
he Maharashtra government has issued a state-wide ban on the manufacture, storage, distribution, and sale of analogue or non-dairy paneer for one year, citing widespread food safety violations and consumer deception.
The Maharashtra government has imposed a one-year ban on Analogue Paneer (non-dairy paneer) across the state, citing food safety concerns and the alleged sale of imitation products as genuine dairy paneer. The ban, issued under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, prohibits the manufacture, processing, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of the product. Violators can face up to six months' jail and a fine of up to INR 1 lakh, according to a report.
Why Maharashtra Banned Analogue Paneer
The decision follows a statewide crackdown on food adulteration, during which authorities uncovered several units allegedly manufacturing fake paneer using vegetable fats, oils and other non-dairy ingredients. Officials said such products were often sold as traditional milk paneer, misleading consumers and posing potential public health risks. Maharashtra has become the second state after Chhattisgarh to impose a statewide ban on Analogue Paneer. Analogue Paneer Banned in Maharashtra: Manufacture and Sale Prohibited, Violators Face Jail and Fine.
What Is Analogue Paneer?
Analogue Paneer is made using vegetable fats or oils and other non-dairy substitutes instead of milk fat. While the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) permits its sale if it is clearly labelled, authorities said selling it as genuine dairy paneer amounts to consumer deception and violates food safety norms. Tukaram Mundhe-Led FDA Halts Operations at 2 Bombay High Court Canteens After 'Inspect Government-Run Cafeterias' Order.
6 Months' Jail and ₹1 Lakh Fine for Violators
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that anyone found manufacturing, storing, transporting or selling Analogue Paneer in violation of the order may face up to six months' imprisonment and a fine of ₹1 lakh, depending on the offence. The government said strict enforcement will continue to curb food adulteration and protect consumers.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 05, 2026 06:23 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
