Pune FDA Suspends Camp’s Pind Punjab Restaurant Licence Over Alleged Analogue Cheese Use
Camp, 25th June 2026: The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has initiated action against a restaurant in Pune’s Camp area after an inspection allegedly revealed the use of analogue cheese in food items without proper disclosure, raising concerns over consumer awareness and compliance with food safety regulations.
As part of a special enforcement drive, FDA officials inspected Pind Punjab restaurant on June 22. During the visit, authorities observed the use of cheese analogue in food preparation and also noted several issues related to hygiene and food storage practices, officials said.
FDA Joint Commissioner (Food) Digambar Bhogawade stated that inspectors collected around 12 kg of cheese analogue, estimated to be worth ₹3,480, for laboratory testing. The samples have been sent for analysis to determine whether the products meet prescribed food safety standards.
Based on the preliminary findings, the FDA suspended the restaurant’s food business licence under relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act. Officials said further action will depend on the laboratory reports and the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
The probe later expanded to a dairy establishment in Raviwar Peth linked to the supply chain. During the inspection, officials allegedly found additional stocks of analogue cheese and paneer products. A total of approximately 225 kg of food products, valued at nearly ₹67,730, were seized during the operation.
The inspection and seizure drive was carried out by Food Safety Officer Satish Hake along with Food Safety Officers Snehal Yenare and Sanket Suryavanshi. The operation was conducted under the guidance of Assistant Commissioner (Food) Narayan Sarkate and Joint Commissioner Digambar Bhogawade.
FDA officials said the action is part of a broader statewide campaign aimed at curbing food adulteration, ensuring accurate food labelling, and preventing practices that could mislead consumers. The drive follows directives issued by FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, who has instructed officials to strictly enforce disclosure norms wherever analogue paneer or cheese products are used or sold.
Authorities have urged food business operators to comply with labelling and disclosure requirements and warned that violations could invite strict regulatory action.
