Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh govt has banned the manufacture, storage and sale of products marketed as “puja ghee”, saying such inedible fat-based products resemble edible ghee and could pose risks to consumers if mistakenly consumed.
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In an order issued on Saturday, Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) commissioner Roshan Jacob directed all food licence and registration holders in the state to immediately stop manufacturing or selling any product under the name “puja ghee”. Officials said some manufacturers use vanaspati, refined oil, paraffin, mineral oil, artificial essences and other substances to prepare materials meant exclusively for worship purposes. The regulator has also barred manufacturers from using the word “ghee” on inedible worship products. Citing food safety standards, the order said ghee is a recognised edible milk-fat product and the term cannot be used for non-food items. Labels such as “ghee for puja” will also not be permitted. Packaging must carry a prescribed black cross mark inside a square and clearly display the warning “Not for Human Consumption” in both Hindi and English. Officials said the move aims to create a clear distinction between food and non-food products and prevent consumers from being misled.
The order comes amid concerns that products used for religious rituals, havans and lighting lamps are being marketed in packaging similar to edible ghee. Since the products often resemble edible ghee in colour, texture, fragrance and packaging, consumers may inadvertently purchase or consume them. The FSDA noted that in several cases inedible ritual-use products were being manufactured or packaged in premises that also handle edible oils, fats and ghee. Such practices increase the risk of contamination, accidental mixing and mislabelling, potentially allowing non-food products to enter the food supply chain. To prevent consumer confusion, the FSDA has mandated prominent warnings on all retail packs of inedible fat-based worship products. In another significant measure, the department has prohibited companies from selling edible ghee and inedible worship products under the same brand name. The order provides for strict enforcement. Stocks found in violation can be seized during inspections, while licences and registrations of erring establishments may be suspended. The directions have come into force with immediate effect across Uttar Pradesh, with the FSDA emphasising that public health and consumer safety remain its foremost priorities. Download the TOI App.
The order warns that if substances such as paraffin, mineral oil or other chemicals used in ritual products are found in facilities manufacturing edible fats, they will be treated as adulterants and attract action under food safety laws.