Milk products such as paneer, khoya and chhena are staples in many Indian households, but concerns over adulteration have prompted Uttar Pradesh authorities to take a tougher stance against violators.

In a fresh order issued by the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA), the state has directed food safety officials to intensify action against manufacturers and sellers of milk and dairy products that fail to meet prescribed food safety standards.

The move comes amid reports that some operators may be producing and selling synthetic or adulterated dairy products using unauthorized ingredients and chemicals that could pose risks to public health.

UP Orders Strict Action Against Adulterated Dairy Products

According to an official order issued by the Commissioner, Food Safety and Drug Administration, Uttar Pradesh, strict action has been directed against products such as paneer, khoya, chhena, cream and other milk products that do not comply with standards laid down under the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011.

The order notes that certain manufacturers are producing and selling synthetic or adulterated dairy products using ingredients such as refined oil, vanaspati, starch, skimmed milk powder, detergents, citric acid, formalin, hydrogen peroxide and other chemicals and additives.

The department has also flagged the alleged use of substances such as surface-active agents, leveling agents, bleaching agents, whitening agents and emulsifying agents to improve a product's appearance, texture, color and shelf life.

The release also referenced substances including talcum powder, urea, sodium silicate, formalin, tinopal, refined oil-fat, detergent, titanium dioxide and hydrogen peroxide among the materials of concern.

No Leniency For Use Of Harmful Chemicals

The official release stated that the state will show no leniency towards those found manufacturing dairy products using harmful chemicals or unauthorized substances.

Authorities warned that such adulteration not only deprives consumers of genuine-quality products but may also create serious health risks.

What Action Will Be Taken?

Invoking powers under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, the Commissioner has directed food safety officers and designated authorities across the state to conduct inspections, collect samples and take enforcement action wherever violations are detected.

Under the order:

• Entire stocks of milk and milk products can be seized if prohibited or harmful substances are found in a manufacturing or processing unit.


• An immediate prohibition order can be issued to stop operations at the establishment if violations are confirmed.


• Criminal proceedings and FIRs may be initiated against those found using substances harmful to public health.


• A statewide ban may be imposed on the sale of the concerned brand.


• Food licenses and registrations can be canceled under the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.

Ban Extends To Products From Outside Uttar Pradesh

The order also makes it clear that products manufactured outside Uttar Pradesh will not be exempt from scrutiny. If milk or dairy products produced in other states are found to contain harmful substances or prohibited additives, the sale of the concerned brand may be banned across Uttar Pradesh as well.

According to the official order, these directions have come into force with immediate effect as the state seeks to curb adulteration and ensure the availability of safe and genuine milk products for consumers.