Delhi High Court Seeks Centre and FSSAI Response on PIL Against Non-Dairy Products Sold as Paneer

LEXQORE | Legal News
October 14, 2026 | Delhi High Court

The Delhi High Court has issued notice to the Central Government, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), and the Delhi Government on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking stricter enforcement against dairy analogues and non-dairy products allegedly being sold or served as paneer without adequate disclosure to consumers.

A Division Bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Nitin Wasudeo Sambre and Justice Sanjay Sharma sought responses from the authorities within six weeks. However, the Court declined to grant immediate interim relief, leaving the requested enforcement measures for further consideration.

What Does the PIL Seek?

The petition was filed by law student Ridhima Singh and advocate Avlokiteshwar Padmapani Sidharth. It seeks stronger inspections, sampling and laboratory testing of products sold as paneer across manufacturing units, wholesale markets, retail outlets, restaurants, hotels, cloud kitchens and online food platforms.

The petitioners contend that consumers ordering paneer-based dishes may reasonably expect a milk-derived product but may not know when a non-dairy substitute has been used. They have urged authorities to ensure transparent labelling and take action against products misrepresented as traditional paneer.

Food Safety and Consumer Rights

The petition relies on the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and seeks effective enforcement of existing food safety and labelling requirements. It also refers to enforcement measures adopted in Maharashtra and other states as examples for consideration in Delhi.

Importantly, the plea focuses on misleading representation and inadequate disclosure; it does not seek a blanket prohibition on all lawfully manufactured plant-based alternatives.

Conclusion

The Delhi High Court’s notice brings food labelling, consumer awareness and regulatory enforcement into focus. The authorities’ responses will help determine what measures, if any, are required to ensure that products sold as paneer accurately disclose their composition and comply with applicable food safety standards.

Case title: Ridhima Singh & Anr. v. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India & Ors.

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