Menu Transparency
In a move aimed at improving transparency in the foodservice sector, the Food and Drug Administration Maharashtrahas directed eateries across the state to clearly disclose the use of analogue paneer and cheese on menus, bills, and display boards starting May 1.
The directive applies to restaurants, caterers, hotels, and fast-food outlets, and follows concerns over widespread use of cheese analogues without informing consumers. Authorities noted that such practices often mislead diners into believing they are consuming dairy-based paneer when, in fact, substitutes are being used.
According to the regulator, analogue paneer—classified under standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India—is made using vegetable fats, starch, and emulsifiers, unlike traditional paneer, which is derived from milk. While both are considered safe for consumption, they differ significantly in nutritional value, particularly in protein and fat composition.
Consumer Awareness
Officials highlighted that the lack of clarity around ingredient usage has been a key issue, with consumers often unable to distinguish between real paneer and its substitutes when dining out. The new rule seeks to address this gap by mandating clear labelling and communication at the point of sale.
The move also extends to manufacturers and suppliers, who are required to ensure accurate packaging and labelling in line with existing food safety laws, preventing misrepresentation of analogue products as dairy-based items.
Industry voices have responded with mixed views. While some see the directive as a step toward greater consumer trust and accountability, others maintain that established eateries already adhere to quality standards.
The regulation underscores a broader shift in India’s foodservice landscape, where ingredient transparency and informed consumer choice are becoming central to compliance and brand credibility.
