Pune, April 27 -- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Pune, has directed all restaurants, hotels, caterers, and fast food vendors to mandatorily inform customers about the use of "cheese analogue" in food items, officials said.

The directive comes in line with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which requires food businesses to provide accurate information about ingredients used in dishes served to consumers.

According to the FDA, paneer is made from pure milk, whereas a cheese analogue is prepared using edible oil, starch, and other ingredients, making its composition and nutritional value different from dairy-based products.

Officials stated that eateries must clearly mention the use of cheese analogues on bills, menu cards...