No ‘paneer’ tag for analogue paneer proposed
Analogue paneer products, which look and feel like the real thing but is made from non-dairy alternatives, should no longer carry the word paneer in their labels , the country’s apex food safety regulator has proposed
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed a change to the regulations surrounding analogue paneer products. These products, which mimic real paneer but are made from non-dairy alternatives, should no longer bear the term "paneer" in their labeling or marketing. The FSSAI aims to prevent consumer confusion and ensure transparency in the food industry.
Analogue paneer is created by substituting milk fats and proteins with vegetable oils and starches. Products that have already been licensed or registered under the 'Analogue in Dairy Context' category are required to cease using the term "Paneer" in their nomenclature, labeling, or marketing, according to the FSSAI.
Analogue products are defined by the FSSAI as items in which constituents not derived from milk replace, in part or whole, milk constituents, and the final product resembles milk or milk products in terms of taste and/or function. In April, FSSAI clarified that analogue products can be sold if they are accurately labeled, but referring to dishes made with analogue products as "paneer" violates the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Six states in India - Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Uttarakhand - have announced restrictions on the sale of analogue paneer. A senior FSSAI official emphasized the importance of consumers being well-informed about their food choices, stating that food businesses should clearly indicate whether they are using analogue paneer.
The FSSAI has given a 60-day window for suggestions and objections to the proposed regulatory change.
Written by urgent.news from Hindustan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
