Maharashtra Orders Paneer Truth on Every Menu

Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration has mandated that all hotels, restaurants, and food vendors disclose on menus or electronic displays whether a dish uses natural paneer or a cheese analogue. The rule came into force on March 25, 2026.

Cheese analogues are cheaper non-dairy substitutes that have quietly replaced real paneer in many kitchens. The directive targets exactly that bait-and-switch. FDA Minister Narhari Zirwal has announced a state-wide enforcement campaign already underway across the state.

Non-compliant eateries risk permanent license cancellation. Asli paneer ya nahin, ab batana padega.