Gowardhan Ghee Maker Parag Milk Foods Fined ₹6.14 Lakh by FSSAI Over Quality Standards

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has imposed a total fine of ₹6.14 lakh on Parag Milk Foods Limited, the company behind popular dairy brands Gowardhan and Go, for alleged lapses in product quality. While the products were found fit for consumption, the samples reportedly did not meet the prescribed quality standards.

FSSAI Penalties on Parag Milk Foods: Details of the Case

In a regulatory filing to the National Stock Exchange (NSE), Parag Milk Foods revealed that FSSAI’s Udaipur division imposed a penalty of ₹1.14 lakh under Section 51 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The action followed the testing of a product sample from a retail outlet that failed to meet quality benchmarks.

Additionally, FSSAI’s Lunawada office levied a separate fine of ₹5 lakh on similar grounds. Both penalty orders were received by the company on November 3, 2025, according to reports.

Company’s Response: Limited Financial Impact, Right to Appeal

In its official statement, Parag Milk Foods Limited clarified that the impact of these penalties is confined to the monetary amount and does not significantly affect business operations. The company added that it reserves the right to challenge the orders before the appropriate appellate authorities.

The dairy firm’s extensive portfolio includes Gowardhan ghee, paneer, curd, butter, milk, dairy whitener, and Go-branded cheese, yoghurt, and spreads—making it one of India’s leading private dairy producers.

Rising Regulatory Scrutiny on India’s Packaged Food Sector

This action comes amid increased monitoring by the FSSAI over packaged food and beverage companies. The regulator has intensified inspections under the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and Labelling) Regulations, 2011, ensuring strict compliance with quality and labelling norms.

Earlier this year, FSSAI also warned brands against using misleading “100% pure” or “natural” claims, emphasizing that such advertising must comply with the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018.

Consumer Awareness and Food Safety: The Bigger Picture

As consumer awareness of food quality continues to grow, India’s food safety authority is expected to maintain strict oversight on packaged food companies. Regulatory vigilance not only protects consumers but also encourages greater transparency within the food industry.

The fines imposed on Parag Milk Foods highlight the growing accountability in India’s food manufacturing sector. With FSSAI’s continued emphasis on maintaining product integrity, brands are being urged to adhere strictly to safety and quality norms to sustain consumer trust.

FAQs on Parag Milk Foods FSSAI Fine

1. Why was Parag Milk Foods fined by FSSAI?

The FSSAI fined Parag Milk Foods ₹6.14 lakh for selling products that, while safe for consumption, did not meet the prescribed quality standards.

2. Which product was involved in the quality issue?

Reports indicate that a sample collected from a retail outlet—believed to be Gowardhan Ghee—was found below the required quality benchmark.

3. What sections of the law were invoked in the penalty?

The penalty was imposed under Section 51 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, relating to substandard food products.

4. How did Parag Milk Foods respond to the penalty?

The company stated that the fines have a limited financial impact and that it plans to appeal the orders through proper legal channels.

5. What does this mean for Indian food companies?

This case underscores the increasing regulatory scrutiny by FSSAI, signaling that food brands must ensure quality control and truthful labeling to avoid penalties.