Maharashtra bans non-dairy paneer, violators face 6 months in jail, Rs 1 lakh fine
The Indian state of Maharashtra has implemented a total ban on the manufacture and sale of non-dairy 'analogue' paneer to prevent food adulteration. Violators face severe penalties, including up to six months in jail and significant fines.
Why it matters
This regulation reflects government efforts to protect traditional food standards and consumer safety against the rise of synthetic food substitutes.
Maharashtra has completely banned the manufacture and sale of analogue or non-dairy paneer, with violations attracting up to six months in jail and a fine of Rs 1 lakh. The move, aimed at curbing the sale of fake and adulterated dairy products, makes Maharashtra the second state after Chhattisgarh to impose such a ban.According to the ban order issued by Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, the manufacture, processing, packing, storage, transportation, wholesale and retail sale, distribution and offering for sale of analogue or non-dairy paneer have been prohibited across the state.Depending on the severity of the offence, violations can attract imprisonment of up to six months and a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
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