India, April 20 -- The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has issued a notice to hotels and caterers, warning them of suspension of their licences if they use cheese analogues instead of paneer in their dishes. The establishments have also been directed to put up boards in hotels and establishments, informing consumers about the use of analogue paneer in their dishes.

Cheese analogues are non-dairy products used as culinary replacements for cheese, and are often plant-based.

In a recent order sent out by FDA commissioner Rajesh Narvekar, officers on the field have been asked to strictly conduct inspection raids to curb the allegedly rampant use of analogue paneer by restaurants, hotels, caterers and fast food establishments.

"These es...