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Food
FSSAI proposes ban on 'paneer' label for non-dairy products
✍️ TOI India
🗓 24 Sep 2026, 11:57 PM
👁 8
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has proposed to restrict the term 'paneer' to only dairy-based products. Non-dairy analogues would be barred from using the name to avoid consumer confusion.
FSSAI has issued a proposal to limit the use of the word 'paneer' exclusively to products derived from milk. The move comes after concerns that plant-based or imitation products are being sold under the same name, which may mislead shoppers. The authority states that the change addresses consumer protection concerns, as non-dairy analogues often misuse the term, causing confusion. FSSAI has also clarified the definition of such products to ensure labeling transparency and help shoppers identify genuine paneer.