In a significant blow to food adulteration networks, authorities in Surat have seized 329 kilograms of suspected fake paneer during a joint enforcement operation, underlining growing concerns over dairy product safety in urban markets. The raid was conducted at A-1 Dairy Foods in the Puna Gam area by the Surat Special Operations Group (SOG) in coordination with the Food Safety Department, following actionable intelligence. Officials confiscated loose paneer stock valued at approximately ₹65,800, suspected to be unfit for human consumption.
Investigators identified the dairy owner as Satyaveer Tarasingh Dhakre, with preliminary findings suggesting the operation may have been active for nearly two and a half years. Authorities revealed that around 100 kg of paneer was sold daily, procured at ₹200 per kg and sold at ₹220 per kg, indicating systematic commercial distribution.
The suspected paneer was reportedly supplied not only through direct retail sales but also to local dairies and catering units, raising alarms over the potential scale of consumer exposure. Food Safety officials have collected samples and sent them for laboratory testing, with stringent legal action expected if adulteration is confirmed under applicable food safety laws.
Senior officials reiterated that adulterated dairy products pose serious health risks, including gastrointestinal infections and foodborne illnesses. The Deputy Commissioner of Police confirmed that inspection drives will continue across Surat, signalling zero tolerance towards practices that endanger public health.
The incident once again highlights vulnerabilities in informal dairy supply chains and reinforces the urgent need for stronger surveillance, routine testing, and consumer awareness to safeguard food quality in rapidly expanding urban centres.
