How to tell ‘analogue’ paneer apart from authentic paneer? Maharashtra bans non-dairy product
Analogue paneer is a non-dairy option for traditional paneer made using vegetable oils, starches, emulsifiers and other additives instead of milk fat.
In Maharashtra, the government has banned the production and sale of synthetic paneer, a non-dairy alternative made from vegetable oils, starches, emulsifiers and additives. This decision, aimed at safeguarding public health, came after concerns were raised about the potential presence of harmful substances such as hydrogenated vegetable fats, trans fats and high levels of saturated fats in the artificial paneer.
Synthetic paneer, which is significantly cheaper to produce than traditional paneer, has been linked to increased risks of heart disease, high cholesterol and chronic inflammation. Health experts have warned that these health risks warrant the ban on the product.
The ban prohibits all aspects of the product's lifecycle within Maharashtra, including manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, retail sale, offering or exposing for sale. Violators could face severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines. This measure follows a similar ban imposed in Chhattisgarh.
Distinguishing between authentic paneer and synthetic paneer can be achieved through a simple iodine or betadine test. If the paneer turns blue or black after being boiled in water and mixed with the dye, it indicates that the product is synthetic.
The ban aims to prevent misleading consumers and unfair trade practices, as demonstrated by the Food and Drugs Administration's warning that serving synthetic paneer instead of authentic paneer could be considered an unfair trade practice under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
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