Maharashtra Bans Fake Analogue Paneer! Simple Home Tests to Spot Real Paneer Instantly

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The Maharashtra government has imposed a one-year ban on the manufacture, sale and use of analogue (non-dairy or synthetic) paneer across the state. The decision follows laboratory tests by the Food and Drug Administration that found a significant percentage of samples failing quality standards. Analogue paneer is made using vegetable oils, starches and additives instead of milk fat and is often cheaper but lower in protein.

Violators face penalties ranging from imprisonment and fines to life imprisonment in severe cases. Hotels, restaurants and cloud kitchens have also been directed to stop using it.

To check if paneer is original at home, try the iodine test: boil a small piece, cool it, and add a few drops of iodine or Betadine. If it turns blue or purple, it likely contains starch and is analogue. Real paneer remains unchanged, has a soft crumbly texture, mild milky smell and does not feel rubbery. Always prefer packaged paneer with clear dairy labelling.