Punjab FDA bans sale of analogue Paneer across state ahead of festive season
PTC News Desk: Punjab Food and Drug Administration has imposed a statewide ban on analogue or non-dairy paneer ahead of the festive season in view of the food safety violations and potential health risks.
The Commissioner of Food Safety has issued prohibition orders under Section 30(2)(a) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, after reports that some food businesses were selling products made from vegetable oils, fats and non-dairy ingredients as genuine paneer.
The administration has ordered food safety teams and designated officers to carry out regular as well as surprise inspections at dairy units, paneer manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, cold storage facilities and warehouses. Officials will also check vehicles and transportation networks used to distribute paneer.
Hotels, restaurants, dhabas, caterers and institutional kitchens have been directed to keep records showing where their paneer is sourced from.
Any business found making, storing, transporting or selling analogue paneer could face action under the Food Safety and Standards Act.
What is analogue paneer?
Unlike traditional dairy paneer, analogue paneer can be made using vegetable oils, palm oil, hydrogenated fats, starch, emulsifying salts and other additives.
Health experts have raised concerns about its nutritional value. Such products may contain higher amounts of saturated and trans fats than regular dairy paneer.
Traditional dairy paneer is a good source of protein, calcium and essential amino acids, while highly processed alternatives may provide fewer nutritional benefits. Some products may also contain higher levels of sodium, which can be a concern for people with high blood pressure.
Experts advise consumers to buy paneer from trusted dairies or certified brands and carefully check ingredient labels. Products containing vegetable oils, starches or several stabilisers should preferably be avoided.
People with heart disease or high cholesterol should be especially careful about highly processed paneer products. For children who regularly eat paneer as a source of protein, fresh dairy paneer is considered a preferable option.
The latest action by the state government comes ahead of the festive season, when demand for food products usually rises. Food safety authorities are stepping up inspections to prevent adulteration and misleading labelling.
- PTC NEWS
