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Adulterated paneer, often mixed with detergent and urea, can harm your health. Learn how to spot fake paneer at home to keep yourself and your family safe
Fake paneer may contain additives such as detergent, urea, and other adulterants. (Local18)
In Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh, recurring cases of fake paneer (cottage cheese) being seized from local markets have raised alarms over public health and food safety. This issue tends to spike during festive seasons, not just in Raipur but across the country, when the demand for dairy products surges.
These adulterated products, often laced with detergent, urea, and other harmful chemicals, pose serious health risks. In such situations, it becomes crucial for consumers to differentiate between real and fake paneer to safeguard their well-being and that of their families.
Contains Detergent, Urea
According to Prakash Parmar, a lab technician at the State Food and Drug Testing Laboratory in Raipur, genuine paneer is made from pure cow’s milk. In contrast, fake paneer may contain additives such as detergent, urea, or other adulterants that pose serious health risks. Parmar also explained that a product known as ‘Analog Paneer’ is widely sold. It is produced by removing the natural fat from milk and adding SMP (skimmed milk powder) and other substances, significantly compromising its quality and purity.
How To Test Fake Paneer
To help consumers spot adulterated paneer, Parmar shared a simple and affordable home test using iodine solution, which is easily available in the market. Here’s how to do it:
- Warm a small piece of paneer slightly.
- Add 2–3 drops of iodine solution.
- If the paneer contains starch, the white colour will turn purple or dark blue.
This colour change clearly indicates that starch, often used to mimic the thickness of real paneer after removing its fat, has been added. The test is quick, accessible, and can be done by anyone at home.
Get It Tested Officially
Parmar added that if consumers suspect the paneer they’ve purchased might be adulterated, they can have it tested at the State Food and Drug Testing Laboratory. Here, advanced equipment and chemical analysis are used to accurately verify its purity.
Awareness Is The Key
The recurring seizure of fake paneer in Raipur highlights the growing activity of food adulterators, who are knowingly endangering public health. In such times, awareness and vigilance become crucial. While the government and food safety departments are working to curb the issue, consumers also have a role to play. By using simple home tests and staying alert, individuals can protect themselves and their loved ones from the harmful effects of food adulteration.
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- Location :
Raipur, India, India
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