Food Safety – Gujarat Enforces Statewide Ban on Unauthorised Analogue Dairy Products
Food Safety – The Gujarat government has announced a statewide prohibition on the manufacture, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of unauthorised analogue paneer, cheese and butter, citing concerns over public health and consumer protection. The restriction came into force on Thursday, with the state administration stating that the decision aims to prevent the circulation of products that imitate dairy items while being made from non-dairy ingredients.
Government Cites Consumer Protection
Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said the state has adopted a strict approach to ensure that food sold in the market meets established safety standards. According to him, the government will not permit practices that could compromise public health or mislead consumers into purchasing products presented as dairy despite being manufactured with alternative ingredients.
The administration maintained that genuine dairy products should reach consumers without confusion, while producers who follow legal standards should not face unfair competition from unauthorised substitutes.
Laboratory Findings Prompt Action
The decision follows inspections and laboratory analysis conducted by the Gujarat Food and Drug Regulatory Authority. During the investigation, officials reportedly found samples of products marketed as paneer that had been prepared using vegetable oils and other non-dairy substances instead of milk.
Authorities stated that such products have the potential to create confusion among buyers because they closely resemble traditional dairy items. The government also noted that the sale of these products could negatively affect legitimate dairy manufacturers while raising concerns related to food quality and safety.
Appeal to Food Business Operators
A day before the ban officially took effect, Minister Pansheriya urged everyone associated with the food industry to strictly follow food safety regulations. His appeal was directed at manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, hotels, restaurants, caterers and other food business operators across Gujarat.
In a message shared on the social media platform X, the minister called upon businesses to manufacture, sell and use only authentic, high-quality food products. He emphasised that compliance with food safety standards is necessary to maintain consumer confidence and ensure that food items available in the market meet legal requirements.
Focus on Food Safety Standards
The state government has reiterated that maintaining food quality is a shared responsibility of producers and businesses involved in the food supply chain. Officials have advised all stakeholders to carefully follow the provisions laid down under existing food safety regulations to avoid violations.
The administration believes that stronger enforcement will help improve transparency in the dairy sector while protecting consumers from products that do not meet prescribed standards. Authorities have also indicated that continued monitoring and inspections will be carried out to ensure compliance across the state.
Strict Action Against Violators
The Gujarat government has made it clear that any individual or food business operator found violating the prohibition will face legal proceedings under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Officials said enforcement agencies have been instructed to take appropriate action wherever unauthorised analogue dairy products are detected.
With the ban now in effect, the government expects food businesses to comply with the regulations and ensure that only approved and genuine dairy products are manufactured and supplied in Gujarat. The move is intended to strengthen consumer confidence, support legitimate dairy producers and uphold food safety standards throughout the state.