Yogi Govt’s Big Crackdown On Adulterated Dairy Products: Paneer, Ghee & Khoya Under Scanner

Last Updated:August 15, 2026, 9:44 PM IST

The order comes after food safety checks in several districts reportedly found adulteration in milk samples.

Under the order, authorities have been directed to take the action.

Uttar Pradesh ordered strict action against dairy units found using harmful chemicals or non-permitted substances in milk and milk products, including paneer, ghee and khoya.

The state government has directed authorities to immediately stop the sale of all milk and dairy products manufactured at a unit if harmful chemicals, refined oils, fats or other prohibited substances are detected during inspections.

The order comes after food safety checks in several districts reportedly found adulteration in milk samples. The government has instructed the Food Safety and Drug Administration Department to ensure strict compliance with the directions.

Also Read | Is Analogue Paneer The Same As Fake Paneer? Decoding What’s Legal And What’s Not

Under the order, authorities have been directed to take the following action:

• If harmful chemicals or vegetable fats are detected at a dairy unit, the sale of all milk and dairy products manufactured there will be stopped immediately.
• Manufacturing activities at such establishments will also be halted.
• If there is evidence of organised use of chemicals considered hazardous to public health, an FIR will be registered against the establishment.
• The licence or registration of the food business will be suspended immediately if violations are established.
• A ban on the sale of products of the concerned brand can be imposed across Uttar Pradesh in serious cases.
• Even milk and dairy products manufactured outside Uttar Pradesh can be barred from sale in the state if they are found to contain harmful chemicals or prohibited substances.

The government order specifically mentions substances such as detergents, titanium dioxide, liquid glucose and hydrogen peroxide among chemicals that may be used for adulterating milk.

The directions cover milk and dairy products, including commonly consumed items such as paneerghee and khoya. The move is aimed at preventing the sale of adulterated dairy products and protecting public health.

The Food Safety and Drug Administration Department has been asked to implement the order strictly and take prompt action against establishments found violating food safety norms.

Notably, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat have recently banned analogue paneer.

Analogue paneer is an alternative to traditional dairy-based paneer in which milk components are partially or completely replaced with non-dairy ingredients, such as vegetable fats or proteins, and other products, which have adverse effects on the human body.

Key Questions Answered

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What chemicals are commonly used to adulterate dairy products?

Common chemicals used to adulterate dairy products include urea, detergents, starch, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), and various other chemicals. Other substances used for adulteration are shampoo, milk powder, water, maida flour, edible oil, and sugar.

Will other states also ban analogue paneer soon?

It is possible that other states will ban analogue paneer soon, as experts suggest Maharashtra’s ban could prompt similar actions elsewhere. Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat have already banned analogue paneer.

How can consumers identify adulterated dairy products?

Consumers can identify adulterated dairy products through various methods, including smell tests for khoya, checking paneer for softness and elasticity, and performing fridge, palm rub, heat, and iodine tests for ghee. Pure khoya has a rich, milky aroma, while adulterated khoya may smell sour or synthetic.

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Saurabh VermaChief Sub-Editor

Saurabh Verma is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18.com, specializing in Indian politics, national current affairs, and breaking global news. With years of experience tracking power shifts, election strateg…Read More

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