Keeping in mind the health of the general public, the Maharashtra government has imposed a complete ban on the production, distribution, sale and use of fake ‘Analogue Paneer’ for one year . According to a gazette order issued by the state’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe on July 30, 2026, the ban has been implemented with immediate effect.
Major irregularities were found in the quality check.
Various cheese samples were recently tested in the state, and more than 35 percent failed to meet quality standards. The investigation found that many products were being made using vegetable fat instead of milk to create counterfeit or analog cheese.
On the basis of this report, the government has taken this big decision.
Ban on hotels, restaurants and cloud kitchens too
As per the government order, now all hotels, restaurants, catering services and cloud kitchens in the state will not be able to use, store, prepare or serve analog cheese to customers.
The investigation also revealed that many food establishments were serving cheaper analogue paneer instead of genuine paneer to customers without any knowledge.
Strict action will be taken against those who break the rules
The government has clarified that strict action will be taken against any food business operator violating the ban under the Food Safety and Standards Act .
Actions may include:
- Immediate seizure of counterfeit cheese
- Destroying stock
- heavy financial penalty
- legal action
FSSAI rules will have to be followed
The government has also directed that all manufacturers of authentic cheese strictly adhere to FSSAI packaging and labeling regulations. The exact milk fat content and grade must be clearly stated on the product.
Government’s big step towards food security
Welcoming the decision, Abhay Pandey, President of All India Food and Drug License Holder Foundation, said that the discussion on analog cheese was going on for a long time and now the Maharashtra government has taken a big decision to protect the health of consumers.
He said that after Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe took charge, serious action was taken on this issue and now its official order has been issued.