Erode-based dairy company Milky Mist has denied receiving any official notice from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) or the Tamil Nadu Food Safety Department regarding an inquiry into its paneer products.
In a stock exchange filing, the company clarified that it had not received any communication directing an investigation into its paneer. The statement follows media reports alleging that the Central Food Safety Department had instructed Tamil Nadu authorities to submit Milky Mist paneer samples for laboratory testing after concerns were raised about product quality.
Milky Mist stated that it would respond appropriately to any communication received from the relevant authorities and take necessary action in accordance with applicable law.
The company’s clarification comes after reports published on October 8 alleged that food safety authorities had sought samples of its paneer for testing. However, the company has denied receiving an official notice concerning the reported inquiry.
As of the company’s October 10 clarification, the reported testing action had not been confirmed through any notice received by Milky Mist.
The development comes amid increased scrutiny of paneer products in India, particularly concerns surrounding adulteration, product quality and the sale of analogue products marketed as paneer.
Food safety authorities have been stepping up efforts to examine dairy products and ensure compliance with applicable food safety standards. Laboratory testing plays an important role in determining whether products meet prescribed quality and safety requirements.
Consumers should avoid drawing conclusions about a product’s safety based solely on unverified media reports. Milky Mist has denied receiving an official inquiry notice, and the reported allegations should not be treated as established findings of adulteration or a confirmed food safety violation.
Any further assessment should be based on verified laboratory results and official communications from the relevant food safety authorities.
Source: FSSAI