Lokmat News Network
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:
Consumers need to be more cautious while eating paneer or cheese-based dishes at hotels, restaurants, or fast food centres. It has come to light that many establishments are deceiving customers by using cheaper ‘cheese or paneer analogue’ in place of real paneer. In response, the Food and Drug Administration has issued strict directives to all hotel owners, caterers, and vendors across the state, warning of stringent legal action for any violations. A deadline has been set until April 30 for compliance.
As per the Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011, paneer is a product made solely from milk and is rich in protein and calcium. In contrast, ‘cheese analogue’ is not a dairy product; it is made from edible oil, starch, and emulsifiers. Although it may look like paneer, its nutritional value is different.
Mandatory mention on menu cards and bills
Under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, consumers have the full right to know what they are eating. According to the new rules, if any hotel or restaurant uses cheese or paneer analogue, it must clearly mention it on the menu card, electronic display boards, and the sales bill.
Administrative directives
Licensed manufacturers and suppliers in the state have also been instructed to clearly mention ‘dairy analogue’ on invoices during supply. Hotel operators must ensure such details are verified at the time of purchase. Those who have registered mobile numbers while obtaining licences have already received direct notifications from the administration. Violators may face criminal action under Sections 18 and 23 of the Food Safety law.
Guidelines for consumers
— While purchasing packaged paneer, check the label for the word ‘analogue’.
— When buying loose paneer, ensure it is made from pure milk and ask for a proper bill if in doubt.
— Before placing an order in a hotel, confirm from the menu whether the dish is made from real paneer or analogue.
— Although analogue is not harmful to health, selling it as paneer amounts to deception.