Maharashtra Bans Non-Dairy 'Analogue' Paneer, Reaffirms Dairy Standards

The Maharashtra Food Safety Department announced a ban on the sale of non‑dairy 'analogue' paneer, effective immediately. The move follows growing concerns that the product, which is made from vegetable oils, starches, emulsifiers and other additives, does not meet the state's dairy standards. Officials warned that the product could mislead consumers into believing it is a traditional milk‑based paneer. Retailers are required to remove all analogue paneer from shelves and may face penalties for non‑compliance.