The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made it mandatory for hotels, restaurants, and food vendors to state on menus or electronic displays whether a dish contains natural paneer or cheese analogue. The rule, enforced from March 25, follows complaints that cheese analogue was being sold as paneer.
Minister for Food and Drug Administration Narhari Zirwal said a State-wide enforcement campaign has been underway since the rule came into effect. The directive applies to all food establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and vendors.
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The decision follows complaints from elected representatives about the sale of a cheese analogue as paneer. Mr. Zirwal said strict action would be taken against those selling products made from vegetable fats under the guise of paneer. The move has received support from the Centre’s food safety authority. A circular has been issued in this regard.
Under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, misleading consumers is an offence. Hotel owners who do not disclose the use of cheese analogue and thereby risk the health of customers could face permanent licence cancellation, the Minister warned, adding, “No leniency would be shown.”
