What Is FSSAI Proposing?
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has put forward a draft amendment to its regulations that would restrict the use of the term 'paneer' exclusively to products made from milk. The proposal aims to add a new clause to the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition
and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011. If this rule is finalised, products that are not derived from milk, often called 'analogues', will no longer be allowed to use the word 'paneer' in their name, on their labels, or in any marketing materials. This would apply to all food businesses, from large manufacturers to local restaurants and caterers.
The Rise of Analogue Paneer
So, what exactly is this 'analogue' paneer? Traditionally, paneer is a fresh cheese made by curdling milk with a food acid like lemon juice or vinegar. Analogue products, however, are designed to look and feel like paneer but are made by replacing milk fat and protein with other ingredients. These often include vegetable oils (like palm oil), starches, plant proteins, and chemicals called emulsifiers to achieve a similar texture. Products like 'soya paneer' (tofu) are well-known, but many other cheaper substitutes have entered the market, often without clear labelling, making it hard for consumers to know what they are actually buying.
Why The Push for 'Food Authenticity'?
The primary reason for this proposed regulation is to prevent consumers from being misled. FSSAI states that the goal is to ensure that the name of a food product accurately reflects its composition, allowing people to make informed choices. There are also nutritional concerns. Consumers, particularly vegetarians, rely on paneer as a key source of protein and calcium. Analogue products can have a vastly different nutritional profile, and when they are sold as paneer, consumers may not get the health benefits they expect. This move follows a series of actions at the state level, with governments in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka already cracking down on the sale of non-standard paneer due to quality and adulteration concerns.
Impact on Industries and Restaurants
The proposal has drawn a clear line between the dairy industry and the makers of plant-based or analogue foods. The dairy sector, which sees the use of the term 'paneer' for non-milk products as a threat to authentic dairy, is largely supportive of the move. On the other hand, manufacturers of analogue products will face significant changes. If the rule passes, they will have to rebrand and relabel their products, potentially calling them something like 'vegetable fat block' instead of paneer. The rule would also impact the food service industry. Hotels, restaurants, and caterers that use cheaper paneer substitutes will be required to clearly disclose this information on their menus, ensuring transparency for diners.
What Happens Next and How Can You Participate?
This proposal is not yet law. FSSAI has released it as a draft regulation and has invited comments and suggestions from all stakeholders, including the general public. There is a 60-day window for people to submit their feedback from the date the notification is published in the Official Gazette. This period allows industry bodies, consumer groups, and individuals to voice their opinions on the proposed changes. After the consultation period, FSSAI will review the feedback before making a final decision on the amendment. This process is a standard part of creating new food regulations in the country and ensures that multiple perspectives are considered.
