After Chhattisgarh & Maharashtra, Gujarat Bans Analogue Paneer, Butter and Cheese

Published By: Mary Rose Baba

Updated: Thu, 6 Aug 2026 (16:36 IST)

The Gujarat government has taken a major step to protect food safety and public health by imposing a complete ban on the production, storage, transportation, distribution, and sale of substandard analogue paneer, butter, and cheese across the state.

Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheriya announced the decision on Wednesday, stating that strict legal action will be taken against individuals and businesses violating the order. The move aims to safeguard consumers from artificial dairy substitutes being sold in the market in the name of genuine dairy products.

Food Testing Reveals Sale of Fake Dairy Alternatives

The Food and Drugs Control Administration (FDCA) of Gujarat conducted extensive sampling and laboratory testing of dairy products available in the market. The tests revealed cases where low-quality artificial dairy alternatives were being sold to customers.

Health Minister Praful Pansheriya highlighted that products made using vegetable oils and non-dairy ingredients were being marketed as paneer and cheese, misleading consumers and raising serious concerns regarding food safety.

Decision Taken to Protect Dairy Farmers and Product Quality

Gujarat is one of India's leading dairy states, with millions of dairy farmers working to provide high-quality milk and dairy products. Consumers purchasing paneer, butter, or cheese expect products made from pure milk.

However, the increasing use of cheaper analogue dairy products was affecting genuine dairy producers and farmers financially. The government stated that the ban has been introduced to protect both consumers and dairy farmers who depend on authentic milk-based products.

Strict Legal Action Under Food Safety Act

The Gujarat government has implemented the ban using powers granted under the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA), 2006.

Any food business operator, trader, manufacturer, hotel, restaurant, or caterer found violating the order may face strict legal action and penalties under food safety regulations.

The state government has also urged producers, sellers, restaurants, and catering businesses to follow the rules and use only certified and genuine dairy products.

 What Is Analogue Paneer? Understanding Its Making and Health Risks

The Gujarat government's decision has once again brought attention to analogue paneer and its impact on consumer health.

Unlike traditional paneer made from pure milk, analogue paneer is a cheaper substitute created using non-dairy ingredients. The government has emphasized that ensuring access to safe, pure, and certified food products remains a top priority. 

How Is Analogue Paneer Made?

Analogue paneer is not prepared using fresh milk. It is generally made by combining ingredients such as water, low-cost milk powder, starch, and vegetable oils like palm oil.

Since oil and water do not naturally mix, emulsifiers are added to create a uniform texture. The mixture is then heated and treated with acids to form a solid product that looks similar to real paneer.

Although it may resemble traditional paneer in appearance, its nutritional value is significantly different.

Difference Between Real Paneer and Analogue Paneer

Authentic paneer is made by curdling pure milk using ingredients such as lemon juice or vinegar. It contains natural proteins, calcium, and other essential nutrients.

On the other hand, analogue paneer is primarily made from vegetable fats, starch, and additives. It is much cheaper to produce, which is why some restaurants and food outlets may use it to reduce costs.

However, it lacks the nutritional benefits associated with genuine milk-based paneer.

Health Concerns and Gujarat's Food Safety Initiative

Regular consumption of low-quality analogue dairy products containing excessive vegetable fats, additives, or chemicals may have negative health effects.

Through this ban, the Gujarat government aims to promote the availability of safe and pure food products while protecting the interests of dairy farmers. The initiative is part of the state's broader goal of creating a healthier Gujarat by ensuring that consumers receive authentic and quality dairy products.