FSSAI to tighten paneer standards, ban non-milk substitutes

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has unveiled a proposed amendment to its regulations that would establish stricter definitions for paneer, ensuring the cheese product can only be labeled as such if derived entirely from milk constituents.

The proposed Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Amendment Regulations, 2026 introduces a new clause under Regulation 2.1.1, specifically addressing paneer manufactured from non-milk derived ingredients. The move aims to prevent misleading labeling and protect consumers from adulterated products masquerading as authentic paneer.

Currently, the regulatory landscape permits ambiguity in paneer production standards, enabling manufacturers to use substitute ingredients while retaining the traditional name. The amendment seeks to close this gap by explicitly prohibiting such practices and establishing clear boundaries for what can be marketed as paneer in Indian markets.

The proposed regulation reflects growing concerns about food authenticity and consumer protection in the dairy sector. Industry stakeholders and consumer advocates have long flagged the need for stricter paneer standards to maintain product integrity and prevent fraud in a category that remains integral to Indian cuisine and dairy farming economies across the country.