Gujarat Cracks Down on Fake Paneer

In a significant move to protect public health and consumer interests, the Gujarat government has enforced a complete statewide ban on the production, storage, transportation, distribution, and sale of non-standard analogue paneer, cheese, and butter. This regulatory action, enacted under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, follows extensive sampling and laboratory analysis by the Food and Drug Control Administration across the state. These tests uncovered several instances where non-dairy products, made with vegetable oils instead of pure milk, were deceptively marketed as genuine paneer.

Government officials emphasized that this practice not only deceives consumers and raises serious food safety concerns but also negatively impacts legitimate dairy farmers in India's leading dairy state. The authorities have issued a stern warning, stating that any individual or food business operator found violating this prohibition will face severe legal consequences as per the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The government has reiterated its commitment to a zero-tolerance approach towards fraudulent food practices.