Shimla, August 20: The Himachal Pradesh government has issued strict directions prohibiting the manufacture, storage, transport, distribution and sale of analog or non-dairy paneer when presented or sold as genuine paneer.
The order, issued by Food Safety Commissioner Himachal Pradesh Ashish Singmar on August 20, 2026, aims to prevent consumers from being misled and ensure compliance with food safety standards under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Under the order, products in which milk fat, milk solids or other dairy components have been fully or partially replaced with vegetable oil, vegetable fat or non-dairy ingredients cannot be marketed or sold as paneer.
The restriction will apply across the state.
Hotels, Restaurants and Caterers Under Strict Scrutiny
Hotels, restaurants, dhabas, caterers, canteens, messes, hostels, institutions, cloud kitchens and other food service establishments have been directed to use only genuine paneer wherever the ingredient is mentioned as “paneer” on menus, bills, displays or advertisements.
Analog or non-dairy paneer cannot be prepared, stored, served or supplied as genuine paneer.
However, separately standardised and legally valid food products marketed as alternatives to paneer may continue to be sold, provided they are manufactured and labelled in accordance with prescribed legal requirements.
Mandatory Labelling and Traceability
The order also makes proper labelling, identification and traceability of packaged paneer mandatory.
Food business operators must ensure that the name and description of a product accurately reflect its actual nature and composition. They will also be required to maintain bills, invoices, source details, batch information and other relevant records related to the purchase of paneer.
These documents must be produced before food safety officers or other competent authorities whenever required.
Strict Action for Violations
Food safety officers and other authorised officials have been directed to take necessary action against violations. If analog or non-dairy paneer is found being manufactured, stored, transported, supplied, sold or used as genuine paneer, action will be taken under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and related regulations.
Authorities may collect samples for laboratory testing and, depending on the nature and severity of the violation, take action including seizure, detention, recall, disposal or destruction of products.
The order will come into effect from the date of its publication in the Himachal Pradesh Gazette and will remain valid for one year unless withdrawn, amended or repealed earlier under the law.
