Punjab’s Food Safety Department has launched a vigorous statewide crackdown following alarming instances of adulterated and spurious paneer flooding local markets. In a proactive drive covering dairy shops, street vendors, and eateries, authorities collected over 150 paneer samples in recent weeks, with a significant number found to be substandard or outright fake.
Preliminary tests revealed the use of synthetic milk, starch, vanaspati (hydrogenated fat), and non-edible whiteners — harmful substances used to imitate real paneer’s texture and appearance. Officials pointed out that while genuine paneer is made by curdling milk with an acid like lemon juice or citric acid, adulterated versions often bypass milk altogether, using starch and synthetic agents, especially during high-demand seasons like festivals and weddings.
Health experts warn that consumption of such fake paneer poses serious health risks, ranging from food poisoning to long-term organ damage. The Punjab government has directed food safety officers to intensify market inspections, particularly targeting roadside vendors and unlicensed dairy units. Public awareness campaigns are also being planned to educate consumers on basic quality checks and the importance of sourcing dairy from certified suppliers.
Industry Insight:
Incidents like these damage consumer trust in the dairy sector, especially for fresh, unbranded products. This situation demands stronger regulation, market hygiene enforcement, and transparent supply chains — as well as an opportunity for responsible dairies to leverage branding, certification, and traceability to reassure wary consumers.
Source : Dairynews7x7 April 16th 2025 The Tribune