Consumer Affairs Ministry raises concerns on adulterated paneer, asks FSSAI to take action

Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi
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Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi, on Friday raised concerns about sale of fake and adulterated paneer after the National Consumer Helpline portal received several complaints. Joshi said he has now written to the Minister of Health, J P Nadda on the matter urging the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to ensure compliance of food safety standards.

In his letter to Union Minister J P Nadda, which he shared on X, stated that there is a growing concern regarding rising cases of fake and adulterated paneer being sold in 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,” he noted.

Noting that several consumers have registered complaints about fake and adulterated paneer on the National Consumer Helpline portal, Joshi noted that consumption of such food items can lead to severe and chronic health issues.

“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,” he stated in his letter.

In his post on X, he added that immediate action must be taken against erring establishments to protect public health and consumer trust.

In February the FSSAI had asked States and Union Territories to step up surveillance on milk and milk products, sweets, snack and savouries including edible oils, cereal and cereal products ahead of the Holi festivities. It had also asked States to ensure enforcement action to prevent the circulation of adulterated food products. FSSAI has also been asking States to undertake product-specific surveillance activities for each month.  

Published on April 4, 2025