A demand to ban the sale of analogue cheese and analogue paneer was raised in the Maharashtra state assembly on Wednesday by BJP legislator Vikram Pachpute, who warned that these non-dairy substitutes pose serious health risks. Highlighting the growing use of synthetic paneer and cheese as cheap alternatives to genuine dairy products, Pachpute urged immediate government intervention, citing potential health hazards and unfair market competition in the Indian dairy industry.
Government to Take Action Against Non-Dairy Cheese and Paneer
Pachpute, an MLA from Shrigonda, challenged lawmakers to distinguish between analogue and real paneer by presenting samples to the assembly speaker. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar strongly supported his concerns, acknowledging the severity of the issue and promising decisive government action.
During the calling attention motion, Pachpute stated:
“Seventy percent of all paneer and cheese consumed in India is not real. This is a serious health crisis, leading to diseases such as cancer and liver cirrhosis. Strict measures are needed to eliminate these artificial dairy substitutes.”
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) currently permits the sale of analogue cheese and paneer, provided they are correctly labeled. However, Pachpute argued that mislabeling and illegal distribution are rampant across the state. He called for:
- Strict monitoring of loose paneer and cheese sales
- Upgraded food testing labs and stronger enforcement
- Border checks to prevent illegal imports from neighboring states
Responding to the concern, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar reassured that the government will convene a meeting with concerned departments and MLAs to address the issue. He also suggested that Maharashtra might push for new legislation at the national level to regulate non-dairy alternatives more effectively.
What is Analogue Cheese/Paneer?
Analogue cheese and paneer, also known as synthetic or non-dairy cheese, are substitutes that do not contain milk. Instead, they are made from vegetable oils, starches, emulsifiers, and artificial ingredients. While they offer cost advantages for restaurants and food vendors, they lack the nutritional value of real dairy products.
Health Risks of Analogue Dairy Products
- Low protein content compared to real dairy
- High levels of unhealthy fats (trans fats & saturated fats)
- Potential risks for heart disease, high cholesterol, and inflammation
Some plant-based analogue cheeses are also consumed by vegans and lactose-intolerant individuals, but concerns persist about mislabeling and deceptive marketing in the Indian dairy sector.
The Future of Dairy in India
As the Indian dairy industry continues to grow, concerns over product authenticity and food safety are at the forefront. With increasing government scrutiny and regulatory actions, dairy farmers, processors, and consumers will need to stay informed on evolving industry standards.
For more Indian Dairy News, updates on dairy regulations, market trends, and consulting insights, stay tuned to Dairy Dimension – India’s Leading Dairy Magazine.
