Zomato bans analogue paneer on its platform, asks restaurants to switch to dairy

Zomato has implemented a zero-tolerance policy against the use of analogue dairy products in dishes listed on its food delivery platform, effective immediately. The policy requires restaurants to either switch to natural dairy ingredients or remove items containing analogue dairy from their menus. Failure to comply could result in delisting from the platform, according to a company announcement on Monday.

The move follows growing concerns over the sale and consumption of analogue dairy products, which replace milk-derived ingredients with alternatives such as vegetable oils and starches. These substitutes, though permitted when properly labelled, have faced regulatory scrutiny in India. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) clarified in April that selling or serving cheese analogues under the name "paneer" violates food safety laws under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Maharashtra took further action by announcing a one-year ban on the manufacture and sale of artificial or analogue paneer, citing public health concerns. Between April 2025 and March 2026, state authorities analyzed 308 samples, with 109—approximately 35.4%—failing to meet prescribed standards. Of these, 79 were deemed sub-standard and 30 were classified as unsafe.

Zomato’s policy aligns with these regulatory efforts to protect consumer health and ensure accurate food labeling. Restaurants using analogue dairy have had their dishes removed from the platform until compliance is achieved. Zomato has also directed its partners to verify ingredient declarations from suppliers to ensure transparency and accuracy in menu listings.

“At Zomato, our core mission is better food for more people, and that means safeguarding customer health and upholding clear standards for what's listed and served by our restaurant partners. This policy reflects that commitment, one we're taking together with partners who share it,” said Aditya Mangla, CEO of Zomato.

The ban on analogue paneer in Maharashtra has intensified industry-wide discussions about food authenticity and safety. Restaurants and suppliers are now under greater pressure to ensure their products meet regulatory and platform standards. Zomato’s enforcement reflects a broader shift toward stricter food safety protocols across India’s digital food delivery ecosystem.

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