Maharashtra Bans Analogue Paneer; Violators Face Jail and Heavy Fines
Maharashtra has banned the manufacture, sale, storage, transport, and distribution of analogue (non-dairy) paneer, citing public health and consumer protection concerns.
Mumbai | August 5, 2026 The Maharashtra government has imposed an immediate and complete ban on the manufacture, processing, packaging, storage, transportation, distribution, and sale of analogue paneer, also known as non-dairy paneer, citing concerns over public health and misleading food practices.
With this move, Maharashtra has become the second state in India, after Chhattisgarh, to prohibit analogue paneer.
The order, issued by Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe on July 30, covers the entire supply chain of analogue paneer, including wholesale and retail sales.
Authorities warned that strict action will be taken against anyone violating the ban under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Depending on the severity of the offence, violators could face up to six months' imprisonment and a fine of up to ₹1 lakh. If the consumption of unsafe food results in a person's death, the law provides for life imprisonment and a minimum fine of ₹10 lakh.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also clarified that selling analogue paneer while claiming it is genuine dairy paneer would be treated as misleading consumers and an unfair trade practice under food safety laws. Such cases will invite legal action.
The issue had been raised in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly last year, where lawmakers demanded a complete ban on analogue paneer. The state government has now acted on those demands, citing the need to safeguard public health and ensure transparency in food products.
The decision sends a strong message that the state will take strict action against food adulteration and deceptive food marketing practices, with the government emphasizing that consumer safety will remain its top priority.
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