FSSAI proposes nationwide ban on manufacture, sale of non-dairy analogue products as ‘paneer’ The food regulator said the move was undertaken to safeguard consumer interests and ban the practice of marketing analogue products as paneer. Updated on: Sep 24, 2026, 22:57:14 IST Edited by Arya Mishra Prefer HTon Google Share via Copy link
FSSAI proposes nationwide ban on manufacture, sale of non-dairy analogue products as ‘paneer’
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed a nationwide ban on the manufacture and sale of non-dairy analogue products marketed as paneer. The food regulator announced this move to safeguard consumer interests and prevent companies from misleading buyers by selling imitation paneer made from vegetable fats and starches.
NAI summary30-second read
What happened
The food safety regulator FSSAI has proposed a nationwide ban on making and selling fake paneer made from non-dairy ingredients to protect consumer interests.
Why it matters
If you buy paneer at the grocery store, you might be paying more than you should. This ban means that the paneer you buy will actually be made from milk, not from cheaper plant‑based substitutes that are sold under the same name. It protects you from overpaying and from unknowingly consuming a product that may not match your dietary preferences or allergies.
Impact
The ban will lead to stricter labeling, possible price adjustments, and a shift in the market where dairy producers may see higher demand while manufacturers of non‑dairy paneer face new compliance costs or exit the market.
Read the full story at Hindustan Times.
