FSSAI cracks down on fake paneer, milk and khoya in nationwide drive

Fake paneer, diluted milk, and adulterated khoya have become growing concerns for Indian households. From sweets bought during festivals to paneer used in daily meals, dairy products form a major part of the Indian diet.

However, repeated reports of adulteration and misbranding have raised serious questions about food safety and consumer health.

In response, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has launched a major nationwide crackdown on adulterated dairy products. Under fresh directives issued to all States and Union Territories, food safety officials have been asked to carry out intensive inspections and take strict action against those involved in selling fake or unsafe milk products.

The move aims to protect public health and restore trust in India’s food system.

WHY FSSAI HAS LAUNCHED THIS CRACKDOWN

The directive has been issued under Section 16(5) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which allows FSSAI to take urgent steps in the interest of public health.

Officials said the decision was taken after repeated reports of adulteration and misbranding in milk, paneer, and khoya across the country.

Adulterants such as starch, sucrose, detergents, and synthetic substances pose serious health risks, especially for children and the elderly. FSSAI believes that unchecked food fraud not only harms consumers but also damages the credibility of genuine dairy producers.

ALARMING DATA REVEALS THE SCALE OF THE PROBLEM

Recent data shared in Parliament highlights how widespread the issue is. In Punjab alone, nearly 47 per cent of paneer and other milk product samples tested during 2024–25 failed to meet food safety standards. Common adulterants like starch and added sugar were found in several samples.

The Union Health Ministry said such figures reflect a larger national problem and underline the need for strict enforcement and continuous



monitoring.

As part of the special drive, State Food Safety Departments and FSSAI Regional Offices have been ordered to inspect all stages of the dairy supply chain. This includes production units, storage facilities, transporters, wholesalers, retailers, and food service outlets.

Food Safety Officers will collect samples following standard procedures and check whether businesses are properly licenced or registered. The drive will cover both large manufacturers and small, informal or unlicensed food business operators.

STRICT ACTION AGAINST VIOLATORS

FSSAI has directed authorities to take firm action wherever violations are found. This includes seizure of unsafe products, suspension or cancellation of licences, closure of illegal units, and recall or destruction of adulterated goods.

In cases where suspicious patterns are detected, officials will conduct traceability checks to identify the source of adulteration and break illegal supply chains. FSSAI has also stressed the need for stronger coordination between States to stop the movement of fake dairy products across borders.

HOTELS, RESTAURANTS AND SWEET SHOPS UNDER WATCH

The regulator has asked state authorities to sensitise hotels, restaurants, caterers, pubs, and food service associations. These establishments must ensure that only safe and genuine paneer and dairy products are procured and used.

Inspection data from across the country will be uploaded in real time to the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS), allowing FSSAI to monitor trends and take swift action. Commissioners of Food Safety and FSSAI Regional Directors have been asked to personally oversee implementation.

FSSAI officials said the nationwide crackdown is aimed at rebuilding consumer confidence, preventing food fraud, and ensuring that safe, high-quality milk products reach every household. For consumers, the message is clear: the regulator is stepping in to protect what ends up on your plate.