Lucknow, October 2026 : The Uttar Pradesh Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) has prohibited the manufacture, storage and sale of products marketed as ‘Puja Ghee’, tightening regulations amid complaints that non-edible fats prepared for religious rituals are being sold in the market in a manner that resembles edible ghee.
FSDA Commissioner Dr Roshan Jacob has issued immediate directives to all food business operators holding licences or registrations in the state, making public health and consumer safety the priority.
According to the order, some manufacturing units have been using vegetable fats, refined oils, essences, paraffin, mineral oil and other chemicals or fats to prepare products intended for puja, havan and oil lamps. Since these products may resemble edible ghee in appearance, colour, smell, packaging and presentation, consumers could mistakenly use them for cooking or consumption.
Action Against Non-Edible Chemicals in Food Manufacturing Units
The order highlights concerns that certain units manufacture or package non-edible products on the same premises where edible ghee, oils, fats and other food items are produced, processed or packaged.
Such practices could lead to the mixing or contamination of edible products, incorrect labelling and the entry of non-food products into the food supply chain.
Taking serious note of these risks, the department has warned that if essences, paraffin, mineral oil or chemicals used in ritual products are found on premises where edible fats are manufactured, they will be treated as adulterants in food products, and appropriate action will be initiated.
Use of the Term ‘Ghee’ on Non-Edible Products Prohibited
The order clarifies that food safety laws and the relevant regulations prescribe standards for edible ghee, which is derived from milk fat.
Consequently, non-edible products manufactured for religious rituals or havan cannot carry the word ‘ghee’ on their packaging or be advertised as ‘ghee for puja’.
The department has also directed manufacturers to use prescribed markings on the packaging of such products so that consumers can clearly distinguish them from edible food items.
Mandatory Warning: ‘Not for Human Consumption’
Retail packs of non-edible fat products intended for religious rituals must carry a black cross within a square, in the prescribed size and format, in accordance with the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020.
The packaging must also prominently display the warning ‘Not for Human Consumption’ in both Hindi and English.
The measure is intended to prevent consumers from mistaking products designed for lighting lamps or other religious purposes for edible ghee.
Separate Branding for Edible and Ritual Products
The FSDA has also prohibited the use of the same brand name or co-branding for edible ghee and non-edible fat products intended for religious rituals.
The directive seeks to establish a clear distinction between food products and materials used for puja and havan, reducing the possibility of consumer confusion and preventing non-edible products from entering the food supply chain.
Seizure of Stock, Suspension of Licences for Violations
The commissioner has directed officials to take strict action if violations are detected during inspections of food establishments.
Action may include the seizure of stocks found in violation of the order, along with the suspension of the establishment's food licence or registration.
All concerned units have been instructed to comply with the directions immediately, keeping public health and consumer interests paramount.
The order has come into force with immediate effect across Uttar Pradesh, with the department emphasising that products intended exclusively for religious use must not be presented or sold in a way that could mislead consumers into treating them as edible ghee.
