FSSAI proposes banning paneer label for substitutes with stricter disclosure
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed restricting the use of the term “paneer” on analogue dairy products and requiring clear disclosures. The move aims to prevent consumers from mistakenly thinking substitutes are classic paneer, a traditional fresh cheese common in Indian cuisine. The proposal would affect manufacturers that label non-traditional products as paneer and would require explicit ingredient and processing disclosures where the label could mislead.
What the proposal changes
The FSSAI proposal would limit or ban the use of the word paneer on products that are not traditional paneer, such as dairy-analogue substitutes. Companies would need to include clear disclosures about the product’s ingredients and how it differs from real paneer. The goal is to reduce consumer confusion and ensure labeling truthfully reflects product contents and processing methods.
Who is affected
Food manufacturers and brands that market substitute products labeled as paneer could be required to adjust labels. Retailers and distributors may also be involved to ensure compliance at the point of sale. Consumers who buy paneer-based dishes or substitutes might see changes in product names or added disclosures on packaging.
Practical next steps
For manufacturers: review current labels that use paneer on non-traditional products and plan for label updates to include clear disclosures about ingredients and processing. For retailers: verify product labeling at shelves and support compliant packaging. For consumers: read product labels carefully to understand whether a product is traditional paneer or a substitute, especially if purchasing for specific dietary needs or culinary uses. If in doubt, check ingredient lists for paneer-origin indicators (milk, curd, acid-set cheese) and any descriptors that signal a substitute.
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