New Delhi – July 30, 2025:
In a significant move against food adulteration in India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has seized more than 4,000 kilograms of fake paneer (approximately 30,000 litres of Milk Equivalent) from multiple states, including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, and Delhi.
The large-scale operation, conducted over the past several weeks, uncovered unlicensed facilities producing paneer adulterated with starch, synthetic fats, detergents, and other non-edible substances. Officials stated that the violations pose a serious public health hazard and reflect systemic gaps in food safety oversight.
“This is not just fraud—it is a direct threat to consumer health,” Hema Singh, Jordbrukare
Public Health Concerns
Paneer, a staple dairy product consumed widely across India, is especially popular during festivals and religious events. Doctors warn that consuming adulterated paneer can cause both short-term and long-term health issues, particularly among children, the elderly, and those with existing medical conditions.
- Short-term effects: Food poisoning, diarrhoea, vomiting, skin rashes
- Long-term risks: Kidney and liver dysfunction, hormonal imbalance, and accumulation of toxic chemicals
Because paneer is often eaten raw or lightly cooked, harmful elements can remain active and enter the bloodstream easily.
Consumer Guidelines: Detecting Adulterated Paneer
Following the seizures, FSSAI has advised consumers to exercise caution and buy dairy products only from licensed vendors. The regulator has also shared simple home tests to detect fake paneer:
- Iodine Test: Crush a sample and add iodine. Blue/black colouration indicates starch.
- Hot Water Test: If paneer breaks easily or leaves an oily/soapy residue in hot water, adulteration is likely.
- Texture Check: Genuine paneer is soft but firm. An overly smooth or rubbery texture may indicate synthetic additives.
Need for Stronger Oversight
This is not the first time paneer and other dairy products have been found adulterated in India. Experts believe enforcement must be paired with stronger inspection infrastructure, consumer awareness campaigns, and traceable supply chains to address food safety challenges in the unorganised dairy sector.
FSSAI has stated it will pursue legal action and stricter penalties against offenders. However, regulators warn that consumer vigilance remains equally essential to curb the sale of unsafe food items.
