In response to growing concerns over food safety, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) on Saturday directed all state authorities to take strict action against the sale of counterfeit paneer and the reuse of cooking oil.

The directive follows a letter from Consumer Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi to Health Minister Amit Shah, highlighting the widespread use of fake and adulterated paneer in restaurants and fast food outlets.

The letter was based on numerous complaints received through the National Consumer Helpline (NCH).

"As the issue of food safety standards are governed by the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, I request you to take necessary measures so that food safety standards are strictly adhered to across the country," the minister wrote.

"I am writing to bring to your kind attention a growing concern regarding the rising cases of fake and adulterated paneer being sold at fast food joints, restaurants, and other markets across the country. These incidents have led to increasing public anxiety and complaints about the quality and safety of the food being consumed, especially among consumers who rely on paneer as a primary source of nutrition," the letter stated.

"Several complaints on this issue have been registered by consumers on the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) portal, highlighting the growing trend of the sale and use of fake and adulterated paneer across the country. Consumption of such counterfeit and contaminated food items may also lead to severe and chronic health issues," it added.

FSSAI has instructed states to carry out enforcement measures against paneer adulteration and ensure strict compliance with guidelines related to analog (imitation) paneer.

The food regulator has also released a list of authorised testing laboratories to help streamline the process of quality checks.

Additionally, the FSSAI has warned that reusing previously used cooking oil will result in strict penalties.

Authorities have been asked to intensify inspections, conduct random sampling, and launch awareness campaigns to protect public health and maintain food safety standards.

On Friday, April 4, the Consumer Affairs Minister shared on social media platform X that he has written a letter to Union Minister Amit Shah raising concerns over the use of fake cheese in restaurants.

Zee Business has consistently done coverage on the issue, shedding light on the risks posed by the consumption of such substandard dairy products.